be in mourning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be in mourning" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the period of grief or sorrow following the death of a loved one. Example: "After the loss of her grandmother, she needed time to be in mourning and reflect on their memories together."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

He was said to be in mourning during this time.

The New York Times

Nearby, Ms. Salem, the architecture student, seemed to be in mourning for a former self.

The New York Times

"We'll be in mourning for a while," catcher Stacey Nuveman said.

The New York Times - Sports

The family will be in mourning at his late residence through Tuesday, May 10.

The New York Times

Rimkus didn't seem to be in mourning, though: she was already thinking about the next Max Fish.

The New Yorker

• To the Sports Editor: New York ought to be in mourning after losing perhaps the manager with the most class.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

"They are in mourning.

The New York Times

Oakland is in mourning.

The New York Times - Sports

She was in mourning, the host explained.

The New Yorker

Chicago has been in mourning ever since.

The New Yorker

Everyone was in mourning".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be in mourning", ensure the context clearly indicates the reason for the mourning, such as the death of a loved one or a significant loss. This avoids ambiguity and ensures the reader understands the emotional state being described.

Common error

Avoid using "be in mourning" for trivial disappointments or minor setbacks. This phrase is reserved for significant losses, primarily related to death. Using it in less serious contexts can diminish its impact and appear insensitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be in mourning" functions as a predicate describing a state of grief and sorrow, typically following a significant loss. Ludwig examples show it used to describe individuals, families, or communities experiencing this state.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

83%

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be in mourning" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a state of grief following a significant loss. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It's primarily found in news and media contexts, with a neutral to formal register. While alternatives like "grieve" or "lament" exist, "be in mourning" specifically emphasizes the period and associated customs of mourning. Remember to reserve this phrase for contexts involving genuine loss to maintain its impact and avoid misuse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be in a period of mourning

Specifies that the mourning is happening during a specific timeframe.

observe a period of mourning

Highlights the active choice to engage in the rituals and practices of mourning.

grieve over

Focuses on the act of grieving rather than the state of being in mourning.

be in deep sorrow

Emphasizes the profound level of sadness and grief experienced.

sorrow for

Highlights the feeling of sadness and grief.

lament the loss of

Emphasizes the expression of sorrow and regret over a specific loss.

be bereaved

Describes the state of having suffered the loss of a loved one.

be grief-stricken

Emphasizes the intensity and overwhelming nature of the grief.

bear the loss of

Focuses on enduring and coping with the grief caused by a loss.

be cloaked in sorrow

Uses metaphorical language to describe the overwhelming feeling of sadness.

FAQs

How do I use "be in mourning" in a sentence?

"Be in mourning" typically describes a state of grief following a significant loss, such as a death. For example: "The family will "be in mourning" at their home for a week."

What are some alternatives to "be in mourning"?

Alternatives include "grieve", "lament", or "be bereaved", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "be in mourning" for events other than death?

While primarily associated with death, "be in mourning" can sometimes be used metaphorically for significant losses. However, it is generally best to reserve it for contexts involving death or similar profound sadness to maintain its impact.

What's the difference between "be in mourning" and "grieving"?

"Be in mourning" describes a state, often involving specific customs or behaviors, while "grieving" is the active process of experiencing and processing grief. You can "be in mourning" while also "grieving".