General Opposites:
* Gloomy: This is a direct opposite of the cheerful and lighthearted connotation of "jolly."
* Sad: This is another straightforward opposite, emphasizing a lack of happiness.
* Unhappy: Similar to sad, but slightly more neutral.
* Dour: This implies a serious and sullen demeanor, the opposite of jolly's playful and good-natured nature.
* Melancholy: This suggests a feeling of sadness and nostalgia, contrasting with jolly's exuberance.
Context-Specific Opposites:
* Serious: If "jolly" is used to describe someone who is lighthearted and carefree, "serious" could be the opposite.
* Formal: If "jolly" implies casualness and informality, "formal" could be the opposite.
* Angry: If "jolly" refers to a cheerful and friendly demeanor, "angry" could be the opposite.
* Disgruntled: This implies dissatisfaction and unhappiness, contrasting with jolly's sense of contentment.
Other Considerations:
* The opposite of "jolly" could also be neutral, as in someone who is neither jolly nor unhappy.
Ultimately, the best opposite for "jolly" depends on the specific context in which it's used.