glum

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'glum' is correct and can be used in written English.
It is an adjective meaning 'sad', 'dejected' or 'downcast'. Example sentence: The glum expression on her face showed her disappointment.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To the somewhat incongruously glum soundtrack of the National, who are at 64 with Graceless.

The Guardian

His manner is slightly awkward, vagueness punctuated by sudden bursts of lyricism; he has a reputation for being glum but is engagingly animated, if only periodically.

The Guardian - Music

Not surprisingly, the mood in the Italian press following last night's game is rather glum.

The Guardian - Sport

Dyke's disgust doesn't feel confected, and he offers another anecdote with glum dismay.

The Guardian

Either way, she does look rather glum.

The Guardian - Film

In California, which faces a $24 billion gap, Arnold Schwarzenegger, the governor, sent the leader of the state Senate a metallic pair of bull testicles to urge him to cut spending.On the morning of July 1st, the first day of the new fiscal year for most states, taxpayers had reason to be glum.

The Economist

The French were feeling glum about unemployment and globalisation.

The Economist

HE CAME late to the election-night party, looked glum and did not stay long.

The Economist

Parents send their children abroad not to learn to run their businesses more efficiently, but so they never have to come back.A future amputatedAll this is breeding a sense of stagnation that compounds the glum mood of the middle class.

The Economist

His glum conclusion, delivered at a conference in 1993, was that although the myth about the KGB's invincibility had collapsed, the agency itself was very much alive.Indeed it was.

The Economist

And Mr McCain is no great communicator.With a month to go, Americans may hear a dirge of glum economic news nearly every day between now and the election.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "glum" to describe a temporary state of sadness or low spirits, rather than a chronic condition. It is most effective when depicting a passing mood or reaction to specific events.

Common error

Avoid using "glum" to describe clinical depression or long-term mental health issues. While "glum" indicates a temporary state of sadness, clinical depression requires more precise and sensitive language.

Linguistic Context

The word "glum" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to describe a state of sadness or dejection. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, supported by numerous examples where "glum" qualifies subjects exhibiting such emotional states.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "glum" is a versatile adjective used to describe a state of sadness or dejection. Ludwig AI validates its correct grammatical usage, highlighting its prevalence in News & Media. While grammatically sound and widely understood, as per Ludwig's analysis, "glum" is best suited for describing temporary states of unhappiness rather than chronic conditions like clinical depression. Related terms such as "downcast" and "dejected" offer similar meanings, and can be used depending on the specific nuance intended. Understanding its appropriate context ensures effective and sensitive communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

downcast

Focuses on a lowered emotional state, emphasizing a loss of cheerfulness.

dejected

Emphasizes a feeling of disappointment and discouragement, often after a setback.

despondent

Suggests a deeper sense of hopelessness and loss of spirit.

melancholy

Implies a thoughtful sadness, often with a wistful quality.

crestfallen

Highlights disappointment and sadness, particularly after a failure or letdown.

depressed

Indicates a clinical or severe state of prolonged sadness.

in low spirits

Suggests a temporary state of reduced happiness or enthusiasm.

heavy-hearted

Emphasizes the burden of sadness weighing on someone's emotions.

dismal

Describes a bleak or depressing atmosphere or situation.

sour

Indicates a displeased or negative attitude or disposition.

FAQs

How can I use "glum" in a sentence?

You can use "glum" to describe a person's appearance or mood, for example: "He looked "glum" after the team lost", or "The "glum" weather matched her mood."

What are some synonyms for "glum"?

Alternatives to "glum" include "downcast", "dejected", "despondent", and "melancholy", each carrying slightly different nuances of sadness.

Is it appropriate to use "glum" in formal writing?

While "glum" is widely understood, it might be considered less formal. In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "dejected" or "despondent" for a more serious tone.

What's the difference between "glum" and "depressed"?

"Glum" typically describes a temporary state of unhappiness or low spirits, whereas "depressed" indicates a more prolonged and severe mental health condition. Using "glum" to describe someone with clinical depression can be insensitive.