The expression "was sad" can be described through several synonyms that can convey different shades of meaning and intensity. Some alternatives to "was sad" are "felt sorrowful," "experienced gloom," or "endured melancholy." Other options include "was downcast," "felt disheartened," or "was despondent." Depending on the context and the emotions that one wants to convey, other synonyms can be used such as "was mournful," "was crestfallen," "was blue," or "was low-spirited." Whatever the choice of synonym, it is essential to choose a word that best captures the nuanced and complex emotions associated with sadness.