I was low

USAGE SUMMARY

This is a correct sentence and it can be used in written English.
Example: I was low on energy, so I decided to take a nap before starting my next project.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

"I was low round in the group," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

I was low on shades of white and beige thread.

The New York Times - Tech

"I was low on confidence, in denial and did not engage with team-mates or coaches.

The Guardian - Sport

I was low on money that day and he loaned me a hundred dollars.

The Guardian - Sport

Dennis had several henchmen; I was low henchman on the totem pole.

The Guardian - Film

SH: It was like I'd been holding my breath for 18 years and I was low on oxygen.

University of California, Berkeley

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

(Clearly, I was lowest in the pecking order).

The New York Times

I was low-key infatuated with her and thought she might be on it too, but I was with my girlfriend and eventually, we left to go back to her place around 3 AM.

Vice

I was low-key infatuated with her, and thought she might be on it too, but I was with my girlfriend and eventually we left to go back to hers around 3AM.

Vice

"I am low maintenance.

The Guardian - Sport

I'm low tonight".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I was low" to describe a feeling of sadness or depression, consider adding context to clarify the intensity and duration of the feeling. For example, "I was low for a few days after the event."

Common error

Avoid using "I was low" when you intend to express simple disagreement or disapproval. Instead, use phrases like "I disagreed" or "I was against it".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I was low" functions as a statement of condition, indicating a state of deficiency, depletion, or sadness. As Ludwig AI explains, it's grammatically correct and used in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I was low" is a versatile expression used to describe various states of deficiency, from energy and resources to mood and confidence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically sound phrase, commonly found in news, academic, and scientific contexts. While generally acceptable, choosing more specific language may be beneficial in formal settings. Related phrases include "I felt depleted" and "I was running on empty", which offer alternative ways to express similar sentiments. Understanding these nuances will help you use "I was low" effectively and appropriately in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I was running low

Implies that you are nearly out of something.

I felt depleted

Focuses on the feeling of being completely drained of energy or resources.

I lacked energy

Highlights the absence of physical or mental vigor.

I was running on empty

Emphasizes being near exhaustion, with little remaining energy.

I was flagging

Highlights a gradual decrease in energy or enthusiasm.

I was feeling down

Indicates a state of sadness or unhappiness.

I was in short supply

Focuses on the condition of scarcity of something.

I was short on resources

Focuses on a deficiency of necessary supplies or means.

I was in a weakened state

Highlights a condition of reduced physical or emotional strength.

I was at a disadvantage

Emphasizes being in a less favorable position compared to others.

FAQs

How can I use "I was low" in a sentence?

The phrase "I was low" can be used to describe a state of diminished energy, resources, or mood. For example, "I was low on fuel" or "I was low after receiving the bad news."

What's a more formal way to say "I was low"?

Depending on the context, you could use more formal alternatives such as "I experienced a deficiency" or "I was in a depleted state". To express sadness, consider "I was feeling despondent".

What can I say instead of "I was low" when talking about mood?

You can use alternatives like "I felt depleted", "I was feeling down", or "I was despondent" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "I was low" appropriate for professional communication?

While generally acceptable, consider the context. In formal settings, phrases like "I experienced a deficiency" (for resources) or "I was disheartened" (for mood) may be more suitable.