a depressing note

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a depressing note" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a sentiment or message that conveys sadness or negativity. Example: "The article ended on a depressing note, leaving readers with a sense of hopelessness about the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The women overhear this conversation and the entire evening takes on a depressing note as a result.

The New Yorker

But it ends on a depressing note: despite the brief flare of outrage, Mr Davies concludes, little has really changed, with an unaccountable and arrogant press holding the whip hand over a cowed and compliant government.The second book, by Mr Mulcaire, is not quite so much fun.

The Economist

RS: Well, let's end on a depressing note—.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

And on that depressing note, I'll give the final word to Marisca.

Vice

Shelley wrote that it signified the "[d]eath of the best actor in the show", and the South Wales Echo published the obituary: In contrast, however, Laws felt that EastEnders was becoming too depressing, noting that Wellard's death came at the same time Jase was murdered and Honey and her husband Billy Perry Fenwickk) broke up, writing: "I feel like slitting my wrists when I tune in now.

Wikipedia

But this is not a depressing novel.

Independent

"Prayers for Rain", a depressing track (Raggett noted: "the phrase 'savage torpor' probably couldn't better be applied anywhere else than to this song") sees Thompson and Smith "treating their work to heavy duty flanging, delay, backwards-run tapes and more to set the slow, moody crawl of the track".

Wikipedia

It is a little depressing to note from the comments on the Magistrate's Blog post on the topic that this comes at the same time that Pink Tape is being recommended to magistrates by their own magazine.

The Guardian

Given the turnover rate of lymphocytes and lymphocyte subgroups, a depressing effect should have been noted.

Acta Orthopaedica

A depressing victory".

The New Yorker

A depressing thought.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a depressing note" when you want to introduce a negative or pessimistic element into a conversation or writing. It's effective for signaling a shift towards a more somber topic.

Common error

Avoid using "a depressing note" too frequently in casual or light-hearted conversations. Its strong connotation can quickly bring down the mood, making it better suited for more serious or formal contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a depressing note" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate the manner or tone in which something is conveyed or concluded. Ludwig AI examples highlight its use in signaling a somber or negative ending to a discussion or event.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a depressing note" is a grammatically sound phrase used to introduce negativity or pessimism. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and applicability, particularly in News & Media contexts. While not overly formal, its strong connotation makes it best suited for serious or analytical discussions rather than light-hearted banter. Alternatives like "a somber tone" or "a bleak outlook" can offer nuanced substitutions. Use it judiciously to signal a shift towards somber topics, but avoid overuse in casual settings. The phrase's frequency is rare.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a somber tone

Emphasizes a serious and grave mood, shifting the focus from the cause to the atmosphere.

a bleak outlook

Focuses on the lack of positive prospects or hope for the future, rather than an immediate feeling.

a pessimistic view

Highlights a general tendency to expect negative outcomes, differing from a specific instance of sadness.

a disheartening aspect

Emphasizes the aspect that causes a loss of enthusiasm and hope.

a gloomy perspective

Focuses on a perspective filled with darkness and despair, shifting from the immediate sensation.

a discouraging element

Highlights an element that deters or undermines confidence, changing the emphasis from overall feeling.

a cheerless mood

Focuses on the absence of joy or happiness, rather than a feeling of sadness.

a sorrowful overtone

Indicates an underlying feeling of sadness that permeates something, differing from a direct statement of a depressing note.

a melancholic air

Emphasizes a pervasive atmosphere of pensive sadness, rather than a specific feeling or message.

a saddening turn

Indicates a shift towards a more sorrowful or regretful state, rather than a prevailing mood.

FAQs

How can I use "a depressing note" in a sentence?

You can use "a depressing note" to signal a negative turn in a conversation or narrative. For example, "The film ended on "a depressing note", leaving the audience feeling somber."

What are some alternatives to "a depressing note"?

Alternatives include "a somber tone", "a bleak outlook", or "a pessimistic view", depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "a depressing note" in formal writing?

Yes, "a depressing note" is appropriate in formal writing when you need to introduce a negative or pessimistic element, but ensure it aligns with the overall tone and purpose of your piece.

What's the difference between "a depressing note" and "a sad note"?

"A depressing note" suggests a more profound and pervasive sense of negativity, while "a sad note" might refer to a more fleeting or specific instance of sadness.