dampen spirits

USAGE SUMMARY

"dampen spirits" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe an event or atmosphere which has made people's moods lower or less cheerful. For example, "The news of the store closure dampened spirits around the town."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

Meanwhile, the ongoing weakness of the global economy could dampen spirits, too.

The Guardian - Business

Even the crushing 4-0 defeagainstnst Uruguay in the last 16 didn't dampen spirits.

The Guardian - Sport

But it was the news that the duke had been taken into hospital that did more to dampen spirits.

The Guardian - Music

The tournament's eye-watering ticket prices - with the best seats going for £715 - have done little to dampen spirits.

The Guardian - Sport

Heavy rains could not dampen spirits as the Old Blue RFC, the club's alumni benefactors, hosted a post-match barbecue in the shelter of Wien Stadium.

Columbia University

Arsenal progressed to the third round thanks to goals from Santi Cazorla and Tomas Rosicky, although the injury to Walcott did dampen spirits during ever-so-slightly.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Tonight heavy rain has dampened spirits.

The Guardian

But it shows no sign of dampening spirits at EnerNOC.

The Economist

Then dismaying profit figures from Motorola, Intel and J.P. Morgan Chase dampened spirits once again.

The Economist

Last month, on a trivia night, frigid rain seemed to have already dampened spirits.

The New Yorker

They needed a change – the fourth goal does seem to have dampened spirits at Whaddon Road.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dampen spirits" when you want to express that something has reduced the overall mood or enthusiasm of a group or individual. It's particularly effective when describing a temporary setback or disappointment.

Common error

Avoid using "dampen spirits" when a situation requires a stronger expression, such as "crush hopes" or "destroy dreams", as "dampen spirits" implies a temporary or partial reduction in enthusiasm, not a complete obliteration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dampen spirits" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe an action that reduces or diminishes the enthusiasm, joy, or morale of a group or individual. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where external factors negatively influence emotional states.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dampen spirits" is a commonly used verb phrase that effectively describes the reduction of enthusiasm or joy. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for various contexts, particularly in News & Media. It is important to consider the intensity of the situation when using this phrase, as it implies a temporary or partial reduction in enthusiasm. Alternatives like "lower morale" or "diminish enthusiasm" can offer nuances depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lower morale

Focuses specifically on the emotional state of a group or team.

diminish enthusiasm

Emphasizes the reduction of excitement or eagerness.

reduce cheer

Highlights the decrease in happiness or joy.

discourage optimism

Targets the lowering of positive expectations or hope.

sap enthusiasm

Implies a gradual draining of energy and excitement.

undermine morale

Suggests a weakening of the emotional strength of a group.

cast a pall

Introduces a feeling of gloom or negativity.

throw a wet blanket

Idiomatic expression meaning to discourage or spoil enthusiasm.

take the wind out of sails

Idiomatic expression meaning to deflate or discourage someone.

pour cold water on

Suggests a discouraging or dismissive reaction to an idea or plan.

FAQs

How can I use "dampen spirits" in a sentence?

You might say, "The unexpected rain threatened to "dampen spirits" at the outdoor concert", indicating the rain could lower the mood but not necessarily ruin the event.

What are some alternatives to saying "dampen spirits"?

Alternatives include "lower morale", "diminish enthusiasm", or "reduce cheer" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "dampen spirits" or "dampen the mood"?

"Dampen spirits" focuses on the people's feelings, while "dampen the mood" describes the overall atmosphere. Choose the phrase that aligns with what you want to emphasize.

Can unexpected news always "dampen spirits", or are there exceptions?

While often negative, unexpected news can "dampen spirits" if it introduces uncertainty or necessitates a change of plans, even if the news isn't inherently bad.