Mood vs Emotion

Mood and emotion are words that are used interchangeably. Both emotion and mood are related to each other that makes the distinction a bit hard.

One of the main differences between mood and emotion can be seen in the expression. Mood is something a person may not express whereas emotions may be expressed. Another difference is that moods may last longer than the emotions.

Emotions are aroused in people by some specific objects or situations. On the other hand, moods are not created in someone because of any specific object or any particular situation. For example, if a person gets angry, he expresses that emotion towards someone. If a person is in a sad mood, he cannot express it to others. The concept that emotion is object- based has been proven even during Aristotle’s times. The object- directed distinction has always been a criterion to differentiate between moods and emotions.

Mood may for a long period whereas emotions only last for the time being. An anger or happiness pertains to the time it is felt. On the other hand, sadness or any other mood is something that can be felt for many days.

When compared to moods, emotions are more extreme.

Emotion is a word that has been derived from the French emouvoir. This word is based on the Latin word emovere, which means ‘out’ and movere which means ‘move’. Mood is a word that is derived from the Old English word of Mod, which represented military courage. This word also referred to personal courage at some particular time.

Summary

1. Mood is something a person may not express whereas emotions may be expressed.

2. Mood may last for a long period whereas emotions may last only for the time being.

3. Emotions are aroused in people by some specific objects or situations. On the other hand, moods are not created in someone because of any specific object or any particular situation.

4. If a person gets angry, he expresses that emotion towards someone. If a person is in a sad mood, he cannot express it to others.

5. When compared to moods, emotions are more extreme.

6. Emotion is a word that has been derived from the French emouvoir.

7. Mood is a word that is derived from the Old English word of Mod, which represented military courage.