conclude on a negative note

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "conclude on a negative note" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when summarizing a discussion or presentation that ends with an unfavorable or pessimistic observation. Example: "Despite the progress made, we must conclude on a negative note regarding the ongoing challenges we face in the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Lest I conclude on a negative note, I wish to recall that in recent weeks, we have seen how the affirmation of political will can transform national policies to address the needs and rights of children.

Unicef

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Overall the market ended the week on a negative note.

The Guardian - Business

He started this campaign on a negative note".

The New York Times

Once again, a good day ends on a negative note.

The Guardian

Although American stocks ended on a negative note, some experts remained optimistic.

The New York Times

Unlike other videos that depict abuse, this video doesn't end on a negative note.

Huffington Post

We're going to start positive this week, but then end on a negative note.

Huffington Post

We conclude on a cautionary note.

Harvard Business Review

Fear not that "Mighty Real" will conclude on a sentimental note.

The New York Times

To conclude on a positive note, the next "call on (genomic) stage" is for the Pacific oyster, Crassostrea gigas.

BMC Genomics

On Tuesday a negative note from Liberum did the damage.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "conclude on a negative note", ensure it accurately reflects the overall sentiment of the discussion or presentation. Avoid using it if the negative aspect is minor or outweighed by positive elements.

Common error

Avoid ending every discussion with "conclude on a negative note". Balance negative conclusions with potential solutions or future considerations to maintain a constructive tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "conclude on a negative note" functions as a descriptive phrase indicating how a discussion or presentation ends. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It typically modifies a verb, describing the manner of conclusion.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

30%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "conclude on a negative note" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe ending a discussion or presentation with unfavorable or pessimistic points. Ludwig's analysis confirms its usability and provides examples from various sources. While the phrase is relatively common in news, business, and scientific contexts, it's essential to use it judiciously, balancing negative conclusions with potential solutions to maintain a constructive dialogue. Alternatives like "end on a downbeat" or "finish with a pessimistic outlook" can be considered for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

end on a downbeat

Focuses on the pessimistic tone of the ending.

finish with a pessimistic outlook

Highlights the negative perspective at the end.

close with a somber reflection

Emphasizes the serious and melancholic nature of the conclusion.

leave on a discouraging thought

Highlights the disheartening aspect of the final point.

wind up on a sour note

Indicates an unpleasant or unsatisfactory conclusion.

end with a discouraging word

Focuses on the disheartening aspect of the final statement.

conclude with a critical assessment

Highlights the evaluative and potentially fault-finding nature of the conclusion.

finish with a word of caution

Emphasizes the warning aspect of the final statement.

end by striking a discordant chord

Uses musical metaphor to indicate disharmony in the ending.

close with a gloomy thought

Emphasizes the pessimistic and depressing nature of the final point.

FAQs

How can I use "conclude on a negative note" in a sentence?

You can use "conclude on a negative note" to describe the ending of a discussion or presentation, such as: "Despite the progress, we must "conclude on a negative note" regarding the ongoing challenges."

What are some alternatives to "conclude on a negative note"?

Alternatives include "end on a downbeat", "finish with a pessimistic outlook", or "wind up on a sour note" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to "conclude on a negative note"?

No, it's not always appropriate. Use it when the negative aspects significantly impact the overall assessment. Balance it with constructive elements when possible.

What's the difference between "conclude on a negative note" and "end on a positive note"?

"Conclude on a negative note" describes finishing with unfavorable or pessimistic points, whereas "end on a positive note" describes finishing with favorable or optimistic points.