What is an example of something that might cause someone to feel bereft?

Feeling bereft typically refers to an intense sense of loss or emptiness. In this context, experiencing the loss of a loved one would profoundly impact an individual's emotional state, leading to feelings of sadness and longing for what was lost. This situation encapsulates the very essence of bereavement, where one grapples with grief and the absence of someone's presence in their life. The other options—winning a contest, receiving a gift, and joining a new team—generally evoke positive emotions and experiences that do not align with the concept of feeling bereft. These scenarios are associated with joy, achievement, and new beginnings rather than the profound sorrow associated with loss.