expression of despondency

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expression of despondency" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or a general lack of enthusiasm. Example: "Her poem was a poignant expression of despondency, capturing the depths of her sorrow."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The bombing was probably an expression of despondency, state media reported.

The Guardian

Ms. Reta finished her thought with an exaggerated expression of despondency.

The New York Times - Food

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

This is when it becomes clear that "Sun," which opens nationwide today, is going to ask a lot of Ms. Lane, and of the audience, because delivering an entire performance based on varying expressions of despondency is a huge demand of anyone.

The New York Times

As Manny said this, his hands began to shake and a look of despondency fell over his face again.

TechCrunch

As a high-school junior, I am deeply saddened by the attitude of despondency toward my generation expressed by Bill Keller in "The Twitter Trap".

The New York Times - Magazine

Look for suicide attempts or other evidence of despondency.

The New York Times - Books

A shadow of despondency covers Ruth's face as she prepares breakfast for her husband and son.

Los Angeles Times

Very uplifting in times of despondency.

The Guardian - Books

And there was a general air of despondency in the city Wednesday night.

The New Yorker

Aretha suffered through rough relationships with men, chronic weight problems and bouts of despondency.

The New York Times

There is a growing mood of despondency about the privacy issue".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "expression of despondency" when you want to specifically highlight the outward communication or demonstration of a feeling of hopelessness or deep sadness, rather than simply stating the feeling itself.

Common error

Avoid using "expression of despondency" in casual conversation or informal writing. Simpler terms like "sadness" or "unhappiness" are usually more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expression of despondency" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the complement of a preposition. It describes how a feeling of hopelessness or sadness is outwardly shown or communicated. Ludwig AI confirms its usability.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "expression of despondency" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe the outward manifestation of feelings of hopelessness or deep sadness. While Ludwig AI confirms it's usable, it's relatively rare, appearing primarily in news and media contexts. Related phrases like "display of despair" or "manifestation of gloom" can serve as alternatives, depending on the desired nuance. When using this phrase, be mindful of the context and avoid overuse in informal settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

display of despair

Focuses on the outward manifestation of hopelessness, rather than the underlying feeling.

manifestation of gloom

Highlights the somber and melancholic nature of the feeling being expressed.

outward sign of sadness

Emphasizes the visible indication of sorrow or unhappiness.

demonstration of hopelessness

Implies a more active and intentional display of a lack of hope.

air of melancholy

Suggests a pervasive atmosphere of sadness surrounding someone or something.

hint of despair

Indicates a subtle or faint indication of hopelessness.

trace of dejection

Highlights a slight or subtle indication of low spirits or sadness.

show of discouragement

Focuses on the act of revealing a lack of confidence or enthusiasm.

impression of sorrow

Emphasizes the perception or feeling that someone is experiencing sadness.

semblance of grief

Suggests an outward appearance or imitation of deep sorrow.

FAQs

How can I use "expression of despondency" in a sentence?

You might say, "His art was a powerful "expression of despondency", reflecting the struggles of his generation" or "The abandoned building was a stark "expression of despondency" for the neighborhood".

What phrases are similar to "expression of despondency"?

Similar phrases include "display of despair", "manifestation of gloom", or "outward sign of sadness", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "expression of despondency" formal or informal?

"Expression of despondency" leans towards formal. For informal contexts, consider using simpler terms like "showing sadness" or "looking downcast".

What is the difference between "expression of despondency" and "feeling of despondency"?

"Expression of despondency" refers to the outward manifestation or communication of the feeling, while "feeling of despondency" refers to the internal state itself. The former is observable, the latter is subjective.