a new low

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a new low" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a situation or behavior that is considered to be worse than previous instances, often in a negative context. Example: "The company's decision to cut employee benefits during a pandemic is truly a new low."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

This is a new low point.

The New York Times

Rejected by a leech: a new low.

The New York Times

The euro fell to a new low.

The Economist

On Thursday, they hit a new low.

The New York Times

"It's a new low.

The New York Times

That's a new low".

The New York Times - Sports

This is a new low.

The Guardian - Sport

Now THAT's a new low.

The Guardian - Film

This hits a new low".

The New York Times

The Yankees hit a new low yesterday.

The New York Times - Sports

A new low is what this is.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a new low", ensure the context clearly establishes what is being compared and why the current situation is considered worse than previous ones. Providing specific details enhances the impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a new low" as a cliché. Ensure that the situation genuinely represents a significant decline, not just a minor setback. Provide specific examples or evidence to support your claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a new low" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject complement or object of a verb. As evidenced by Ludwig AI, it describes a situation or state that is worse than any previous occurrence. It often follows verbs like "hit", "reach", or "sink to."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a new low" is a noun phrase used to describe a situation or state that is worse than any previous occurrence. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and frequently used, primarily in News & Media contexts. The phrase conveys disapproval or disappointment, signifying a critical downturn. While appropriate for formal writing, it should be used judiciously to maintain impact. Consider alternative phrases like "an all-time low" or "rock bottom" for similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an all-time low

Emphasizes that the current state is the worst it has ever been.

the lowest point

A straightforward and neutral way to describe the worst moment or state.

a historical low

Indicates the worst level ever recorded based on historical data.

rock bottom

Refers to the lowest possible point, often implying that recovery is necessary or imminent.

unprecedented low

Stresses the uniqueness and unexpected nature of the decline.

a nadir

A more formal term for the lowest point, often used in academic or technical contexts.

a new depth

Implies a descent into something unpleasant or undesirable.

the absolute worst

Highlights the extreme negativity of the situation.

the pits

An informal way to describe a very bad situation.

the lowest ebb

Draws a parallel to the tide, suggesting a temporary low point.

FAQs

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

You can use "a new low" to describe a situation that is worse than it has ever been before. For instance: "The company's stock price hit "a new low" after the scandal was revealed".

What phrases are similar in meaning to "a new low"?

Alternatives to "a new low" include "an all-time low", "the lowest point", or "rock bottom", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "a new low" in formal writing?

Yes, "a new low" is appropriate for formal writing, particularly in news reporting or analytical contexts, as it clearly conveys a significant negative change. However, avoid overuse to maintain impact.

What is the difference between "a new low" and "an all-time low"?

"A new low" suggests a recent decline that surpasses previous instances, while "an all-time low" emphasizes that it's the worst point ever recorded in history or a particular timeframe. The subtle distinction depends on the scale and context.