depressing times

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "depressing times" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe periods characterized by sadness, hardship, or negative events affecting a group or society. Example: "Many people are struggling to cope with the challenges of these depressing times, as the economy continues to decline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

He just lived in stressful and depressing times.

The New York Times - Magazine

No matter – more like this for these depressing times, please.

The Guardian - Opinion

But that is not to say there have not been some very depressing times.

The Guardian - Books

"There's been a huge feelgood factor in such depressing times," said his wife Louise.

The Guardian - Sport

Never let it be said that Cold Feet hasn't moved with the depressing times.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

That's what is missing from our lives in these depressing times when the fight has been crafted so that someone else is always to blame.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

It's both an exciting and depressing time: excited to see what AMD has in store, but depressed to know that my once high flying 5970 is now old news.

TechCrunch

"That was a depressing time," Lee says.

The Guardian - Music

It was the most depressing time.

The Guardian - Books

January is a depressing time for many.

The Guardian

"You cannot call this a depressing time," he said.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "depressing times", provide specific context to clarify what makes the period depressing, such as economic hardship, social unrest, or political instability.

Common error

Avoid using "depressing times" as a vague descriptor. Always provide concrete details about the specific issues contributing to the negative atmosphere rather than just stating that it is "depressing".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "depressing times" functions as a noun phrase, where "depressing" modifies the noun "times". It describes a specific period characterized by negative or sad conditions, expressing a subjective assessment of that era.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "depressing times" is a grammatically sound and readily understandable way to describe periods of hardship or sadness. As identified by Ludwig, it is primarily used in news and media contexts. While generally appropriate for various settings, providing specific context helps to avoid vagueness and enhances clarity. Consider alternatives such as "grim times" or "bleak period" depending on the specific nuance you aim to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grim times

Emphasizes the bleak and severe nature of the period.

bleak period

Focuses on the lack of hope or positive prospects.

difficult days

Highlights the challenges and hardships experienced.

hard times

A general term for periods of economic or personal hardship.

unfortunate circumstances

Downplays the emotional aspect, focusing on the unfavorable conditions.

troubled era

Highlights the problematic and chaotic nature of the period.

challenging moments

Focuses on the difficulties and tests faced during the period.

adverse period

Emphasizes the negative and unfavorable nature of the times.

desolate years

Highlights the emptiness and sadness associated with the period.

gloomy days

Focuses on the somber and melancholic atmosphere.

FAQs

How can I use "depressing times" in a sentence?

You can use "depressing times" to describe periods marked by hardship, sadness, or difficulty. For example, "Many people are struggling to cope with the challenges of these depressing times."

What phrases are similar to "depressing times"?

Similar phrases include "grim times", "bleak period", or "difficult days". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "depressing times" formal or informal?

The phrase "depressing times" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives may be preferable in certain situations.

What makes a period qualify as "depressing times"?

A period can be described as "depressing times" when it is characterized by widespread negative conditions, such as economic downturns, social unrest, political turmoil, or a general sense of hopelessness.