Dampen enthusiasm

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Dampen enthusiasm" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to actions or statements that reduce or suppress someone's excitement or eagerness about something. Example: "The unexpected news about budget cuts seemed to dampen enthusiasm for the upcoming project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But the modest turnouts did not appear to dampen enthusiasm.

The New York Times

But the precautions did little to dampen enthusiasm.

The New York Times

Should the Groupon share price fizzle, it could dampen enthusiasm for the broad sector.

The New York Times

Legal institutions and the cable TV culture dampen enthusiasm by punishing failure so remorselessly.

The New York Times

The quality of the opponent and the chillier weather can dampen enthusiasm as well.

The New York Times - Sports

That, plus the economic downturn, may dampen enthusiasm for the "Bilbao effect" in some places.

The Economist

Meanwhile, others warned that the Title I provisions could dampen enthusiasm for larger I.P.O.'s, too.

The New York Times

Subtle pecking-order arrangements emerge that can dampen enthusiasm or exaggerate one individual's organizing skills.

The New York Times - Tech

In Christchurch, New Zealand, two minor earthquakes failed to dampen enthusiasm for all-night celebrations.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

And the fact that Lysippos's authorship has been called into question has done little to dampen enthusiasm here.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Such concerns, however, have not dampened enthusiasm.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dampen enthusiasm" when you want to describe how something reduces positive feelings without completely eliminating them. It suggests a softening or lessening of excitement rather than a complete extinguishing.

Common error

Avoid using "dampen enthusiasm" in situations that require stronger language, such as describing utter devastation or complete loss of hope. The phrase is best suited for scenarios where a subtle reduction in positive feelings is more accurate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dampen enthusiasm" functions as a verb phrase where "dampen" acts as a transitive verb affecting the noun "enthusiasm". The phrase describes the action of reducing the intensity of enthusiasm, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

News & Media

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dampen enthusiasm" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe a reduction in positive feelings or excitement. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts. It is most frequently found in News & Media, but also appears in Science and Formal & Business writing. When using the phrase, remember that it suggests a softening rather than a complete extinguishing of excitement. Alternatives like "reduce excitement" or "diminish zeal" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Reduce excitement

Focuses on decreasing the level of excitement, simplifying the original phrase.

Diminish zeal

Emphasizes a reduction in passion or fervor.

Curb eagerness

Highlights controlling or restraining enthusiasm.

Cool ardor

Implies reducing the intensity of strong feelings or passion.

Subdue fervor

Suggests bringing strong feelings under control.

Discourage passion

Highlights the action of dissuading or preventing strong feelings.

Inhibit excitement

Focuses on preventing excitement from arising or expressing itself.

Quell spirit

Implies suppressing someone's energy or morale.

Stifle zeal

Suggests suppressing or holding back enthusiasm.

Depress morale

Focuses on lowering someone's spirits or confidence.

FAQs

How can I use "dampen enthusiasm" in a sentence?

You can use "dampen enthusiasm" to describe something that reduces excitement or eagerness, for example: "The bad weather didn't "dampen enthusiasm" for the outdoor concert."

What are some alternatives to "dampen enthusiasm"?

You can use alternatives like "reduce excitement", "diminish zeal", or "curb eagerness" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "reduce enthusiasm" or "dampen enthusiasm"?

Both "reduce enthusiasm" and "dampen enthusiasm" are correct, but "dampen enthusiasm" suggests a more subtle and gradual lessening of excitement, while "reduce enthusiasm" can imply a more significant decrease.

What's the difference between "dampen enthusiasm" and "kill enthusiasm"?

"Dampen enthusiasm" means to slightly reduce or lessen excitement, whereas "kill enthusiasm" implies completely eliminating or destroying it. "Dampen enthusiasm" is a milder and more nuanced expression.