a shadow of disappointment

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a shadow of disappointment" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a feeling of lingering sadness or regret that is not overwhelming but still present. Example: "After the team lost the championship, there was a shadow of disappointment hanging over the players as they accepted their medals."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Yet there's also a shadow of disappointment that the United States has been so passive as the humanitarian crisis has worsened.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Why should I long to provoke, in the clear eyes of my fourth wife, the first shadow of disappointment and pain?

The New Yorker

Or perhaps she caught that shadow of disappointment on Uncle Jasper's face before he was even aware of it himself.

The New Yorker

"The big disappointment for me last year was the performances, without a shadow of doubt.

Independent

A shadow of a shadow.

The New Yorker

It is a shadow of itself.

The New Yorker

"Without a shadow of a doubt.

BBC

Without a shadow of doubt.

BMC Nursing

In the 1998 Belmont Stakes, Real Quiet, trained by Bob Baffert, was collared by Victory Gallop in the grim shadow of the wire – rarely have four small inches seemed such a chasm of disappointment.

The Guardian - Sport

I saw a minefield of disappointment".

The New York Times

"There's a lot of disappointment".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a shadow of disappointment" to subtly convey a feeling that isn't overwhelming but still noticeable. This phrase is apt for describing lingering feelings after an event or situation.

Common error

Avoid using "a shadow of disappointment" too frequently in your writing. Its nuanced meaning is most effective when used sparingly to highlight specific instances of subdued regret or sadness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a shadow of disappointment" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence to describe a feeling or atmosphere. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is considered usable and is found in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a shadow of disappointment" is a grammatically correct and subtly expressive way to describe a lingering feeling of sadness or regret. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable in written English. While not frequently used, as indicated by its 'Rare' frequency, it is found in reputable sources like The New York Times and The New Yorker. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for various writing contexts where a delicate touch is needed to convey emotion. When using the phrase, consider its nuanced nature and avoid overuse to maintain its impact. Alternatives like "a hint of sadness" or "a tinge of regret" can provide similar shades of meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a hint of sadness

Implies a very slight and subtle feeling of sadness.

a touch of melancholy

Suggests a more reflective and thoughtful sadness.

a tinge of regret

Highlights the aspect of remorse or wishing things were different.

a wave of sorrow

Indicates a more intense and overwhelming feeling of sadness.

a lingering sadness

Emphasizes the prolonged duration of the feeling.

a cloud of gloom

Suggests a pervasive and depressing atmosphere.

a veil of tears

Implies a more dramatic and visible expression of sadness.

a sense of loss

Focuses on the feeling of having lost something valuable.

a feeling of despair

Indicates a complete loss of hope and a deep sense of sadness.

a pang of grief

Highlights a sharp and sudden feeling of sadness or sorrow.

FAQs

How can I use "a shadow of disappointment" in a sentence?

You can use "a shadow of disappointment" to describe a lingering feeling of sadness or regret after an event. For example: "Even though they won, a shadow of disappointment lingered because their star player was injured."

What are some alternatives to "a shadow of disappointment"?

Alternatives include "a hint of sadness", "a tinge of regret", or "a touch of melancholy", each conveying a slightly different nuance of subdued sadness.

Is it correct to say "a shadow of disappointment"?

Yes, "a shadow of disappointment" is a grammatically correct and understandable phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, and examples are found in credible sources.

What is the difference between "a shadow of disappointment" and "a wave of disappointment"?

"A shadow of disappointment" suggests a lingering, less intense feeling, while "a wave of disappointment" implies a stronger, more overwhelming surge of sadness.