Something that is dismal is bad in a sad or depressing way.
Israel's dismal record in the Olympics.
以色列在奥运会上的惨淡纪录。
Something that is dismal is sad and depressing, especially in appearance.
The main part of the hospital is pretty dismal but the children's ward is really lively.
这家医院的主要地方颇为沉闷,但是儿科病房却很有生气。