gloomy atmosphere

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "gloomy atmosphere" is grammatically correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe an environment that is oppressive, depressing, and melancholy in nature. Example sentence: The gloomy atmosphere in the room made everyone feel uneasy.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

In this gloomy atmosphere, China beckons.

The New York Times

Color is muted, creating a dank, gloomy atmosphere that dims the feebly glowing sun.

The New York Times

But the rain does not let up, and the gloomy atmosphere in the deserted stand lingers.

The New York Times

Finally the lodgers left - they could no longer stand the gloomy atmosphere.

The New Yorker

It changed the personality of the team, rebooting the fragile and gloomy atmosphere.

The Guardian - Sport

The gloomy atmosphere has somewhat reduced Renzi's exceptional personal popularity, which has so far been his greatest weapon.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

The pilot opens just after the death of Carrie's mother, establishing the melancholy doomy-gloomy atmosphere typical of hourlong teenage dramas and allowing for some poignant scenes involving Mom's dresses and shoes that set up the daughter's fashionista tendencies.

The New York Times - Arts

I like this dark atmosphere sometimes, when it's gloomy, clouds are coming in and then it rains.

The New York Times

Lady Ashton's success should now help to lift the gloomy Balkan atmosphere.

The Economist

Also adding to the gloomy economic atmosphere, he said, are recent national jobs and retail sales numbers, which were both expected to be up, but came in down.

The New York Times

At the time, Mr. Trump tried to force existing bondholders to accept a lower rate given the gloomy economic atmosphere after Sept. 11.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using more specific adjectives like "damp", "stifling", or "desolate" to further enhance the description of the atmosphere.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "gloomy atmosphere" in news reports; instead, provide concrete details and sensory descriptions that allow readers to infer the atmosphere themselves.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gloomy atmosphere" functions as a descriptive noun phrase, modifying a noun to convey a sense of oppressive or depressing surroundings. This is consistent with Ludwig's examples which showcase its use in describing physical and emotional environments.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Encyclopedias

11%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "gloomy atmosphere" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a depressing or oppressive environment. As confirmed by Ludwig, its primary function is to evoke a specific emotional response, setting a tone of unease or sadness. It's most frequently used in news and media contexts, with a neutral register suitable for various types of writing. To enhance your writing, consider using more specific adjectives or avoiding overuse in journalistic contexts, providing vivid descriptions to let the reader infer the feeling. For alternatives, you might use "oppressive environment" or "somber mood" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

oppressive environment

Focuses on the feeling of being weighed down or controlled by the surroundings.

depressing ambiance

Highlights the sadness and negativity associated with the environment's mood.

somber mood

Emphasizes a serious and grave emotional tone.

dismal setting

Points to the bleak and unfavorable characteristics of the place.

bleak environment

Stresses the barren and hopeless nature of the surroundings.

heavy air

Indicates a sense of tension or emotional burden in the environment.

morbid feeling

Highlights a preoccupation with death or unpleasant subjects.

funereal atmosphere

Implies a solemn and mournful environment, like that of a funeral.

dreary conditions

Emphasizes the dull and depressing aspects of the circumstances.

melancholy ambiance

Focuses on a pensive sadness and thoughtfulness pervading the environment.

FAQs

How can I use "gloomy atmosphere" in a sentence?

You can use "gloomy atmosphere" to describe a place or situation that feels depressing or ominous. For example, "The abandoned house had a "gloomy atmosphere" that made it feel haunted."

What are some synonyms for "gloomy atmosphere"?

Alternatives to "gloomy atmosphere" include "oppressive environment", "depressing ambiance", or "somber mood".

Is "gloomy atmosphere" formal or informal?

"Gloomy atmosphere" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the specific setting and purpose of your writing. It's generally appropriate for most types of writing.

What contributes to a "gloomy atmosphere"?

Factors contributing to a "gloomy atmosphere" can include bad weather, dim lighting, muted colors, or a general sense of sadness or unease. It could be physical or emotional factors.