downer

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "downer" is a correct and usable word in written English.
It is used as an adjective to describe something that is depressing or brings down one's spirits. For example, "The cold, rainy day was such a downer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

Look, no one wants to be a downer on manifesto launch day.

The Guardian

Yes, there were the two cruel defeats come the finale, an undeserved ending for all that had gone before, but unlike Dundee United's final two games, I don't want to finish this blog on a downer.

The Guardian - Sport

Sorry to kick things off on such a downer but when you sell up, move to another country to follow your dream and it doesn't happen as quickly as you like, if indeed ever, (and you also happen to be turning 40 in a very short five months time), I suppose it's reasonable to expect moments of "What am I doing here?" and "Am I good enough?" The dark cloud was ushered in by three rejections of my work.

The Guardian - Film

Carr has asked the department for official records of meetings and conversations during his time as minister – something former ministers are entitled to do, but according to Downer, not for the purpose of "selling a book".

The Guardian

Downer conceded that asking for permission to publish private conversations "might help, but even the fact that a former foreign minister is asking for permission to publish is not good for Australia".

The Guardian

Thus the agreement's provisions for regular meetings involving the two sides' foreign and defence ministers, joint military exercises, and more formal arrangements for sharing information would all improve humanitarian missions.A security agreement is a symbolic way of building up those new aspects of the relationship, says Mr Downer.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

I would like to capture some of the instincts on this of Paul Keating, Malcolm Fraser and even Alexander Downer; and I value the words of Gareth Evans – that we should not approach the Americans 'happy to lie on our backs like puppy dogs with four paws waving and pink tummies exposed'".

The Guardian

Bob Carr's intention to publish a "riveting" diary kept during his 18 months as foreign affairs minister is "inappropriate", "embarrassing" and "wrong", according to the former foreign affairs minister Alexander Downer.

The Guardian

He bolstered his position as opposition foreign affairs spokesman with fiery performances in parliament, pressing prime minister John Howard and foreign minister Alexander Downer on their alleged roles in kickback scandals in which Australia's monopoly wheat exporter was found to have paid bribes to Saddam Hussein under the UN oil-for-food programme.

The Guardian

Australia's high commissioner in the UK, Alexander Downer, was present at the castle, where the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh are currently staying.

The Guardian

He has previously heckled Abbott during a speech at Melbourne University, and approached Clive Palmer during a meeting with former foreign minister Alexander Downer.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "downer" to describe situations, events, or even people that bring about feelings of sadness, disappointment, or discouragement. Ensure the context is clear and appropriate, as the term can sometimes be informal.

Common error

While "downer" is widely understood, avoid using it in highly formal or professional settings. Opt for more sophisticated terms like "disappointment" or "setback" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The word "downer" functions primarily as a noun, often referring to something that causes a reduction in mood or spirits. As Ludwig AI indicates, it can also function adjectivally. Ludwig examples show how it is used to describe disagreeable or depressing people, things, or events.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Encyclopedias

8%

Science

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "downer" is a commonly used noun to describe something that brings about negative feelings or disappointment. As Ludwig AI points out, it can occasionally function as an adjective. While grammatically correct, it is best suited for neutral to informal contexts and should be used cautiously in professional or academic settings. Alternatives such as "disappointment" or "setback" are more appropriate for formal communication. The examples illustrate its prevalence in news and media, reflecting its widespread understanding and usage in contemporary English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

disappointment

Focuses on the feeling of sadness caused by the non-fulfillment of expectations.

negative experience

Emphasizes the unpleasantness of an event or situation.

bummer

An informal term for a disappointing situation.

dispiriting event

Highlights the loss of enthusiasm or morale caused by something.

setback

Indicates a hindrance or reversal in progress.

unfortunate incident

Focuses on the unlucky or regrettable nature of an event.

pessimistic outlook

Highlights a negative perspective or expectation about the future.

discouraging factor

Emphasizes something that reduces confidence or enthusiasm.

negative aspect

Focuses on the unfavorable side of something.

downside

Refers to the disadvantage or negative part of something.

FAQs

How can I use "downer" in a sentence?

You can use "downer" to describe something that is disappointing or depressing. For example, "The cancellation of the event was a real "downer".

What's a more formal alternative to "downer"?

In more formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "disappointment", "setback", or "negative aspect".

Is "downer" appropriate for professional communication?

While widely understood, "downer" is generally considered informal. It's best to use more professional terms like "disappointment" or "unfortunate incident" in business settings.

What does it mean when someone says something is a "downer"?

It means that the thing being described is causing sadness, disappointment, or a decrease in mood or enthusiasm. It's essentially something that brings you down.