got dismal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "got dismal" is not standard in written English and may be considered informal or incorrect.
It could be used in casual conversation to describe a situation that has become bleak or depressing, but it is not typically used in formal writing. Example: "After the team lost the championship, the mood in the locker room got dismal."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The Mets got dismal offensive production from those two positions this year.

The New York Times - Sports

In the last three debates, he got dismal reviews for appearing unprepared on several crucial issues and losing his focus.

The New York Times

But while Manatee got dismal marks from state and federal accountability schemes, it was actually quite successful in a number of important ways.

Stanford University

■ After some duds with "The Lone Ranger" and "Oz the Great and Powerful" — the former got dismal reviews and will lose at least $160 million, the latter got so-so reviews and was only thinly profitable — Disney may have some work to do when it comes to convincing fans that its plan to keep updating classic stories is a good one.

The New York Times

Although Republicans and Democrats each got dismal marks from their opponents, the GOP owes its struggling ratings in part to discontent among its own members, about a third of whom said their party was out of touch and resistant to change.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

And the gains could be accomplished with minimal added cost or complexity, though such a vehicle would still get dismal mileage in town.

The New York Times

On that note, the DBS got a dismal 12 m.p.g.

The New York Times

With around 25% of the vote, it was the first time the party has come top in a national election, pushing the UMP into second place with 21%, and crushing the Socialists, who got a dismal 14%.

The Economist

For a moment it looked that way but then a scene or two later, Robin Wright's Claire got her dismal groove back, telling Frank that to save himself he must do whatever it takes to persuade Walker that he is not an enemy but a friend: "Seduce him.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

It got a dismal 20% "fresh" rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and earned a C-plus from CinemaScore, a company that polls moviegoers on opening night.

Los Angeles Times

White has been on an interview tour, telling a story that gets increasingly dismal as she goes along.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid using the phrase "got dismal" in formal writing. Opt for more standard expressions such as "became bleak" or "turned grim" for clarity and wider acceptance.

Common error

Don't assume "got dismal" is appropriate in professional or academic settings. Its informality can undermine the seriousness of your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "got dismal" functions as a predicate adjective, describing a state or condition that has deteriorated negatively. Ludwig AI notes that this phrase is considered non-standard and informal.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "got dismal" is understandable, it's not considered standard English. Ludwig AI identifies it as non-standard. Its informal nature makes it unsuitable for professional or academic writing. More appropriate alternatives include phrases such as "became bleak" or "turned grim". While present in news and media, caution is advised when using this phrase, ensuring that it aligns with the intended tone and audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

became bleak

Replaces "got dismal" with a more formal and widely accepted phrase to describe a situation turning gloomy.

turned grim

Substitutes "got dismal" with a concise phrase, emphasizing a negative shift in circumstances.

declined sharply

Focuses on a rapid decrease or deterioration, fitting contexts where performance is measured.

deteriorated significantly

Highlights a considerable worsening of a condition or situation, making it more formal.

yielded poor results

Replaces the phrase with a more formal and descriptive term that focuses on results.

received negative reviews

Offers a specific focus on critiques and feedback, particularly in areas like entertainment or performance.

experienced a downturn

Suggests a decline in performance or condition, often used in business or economic contexts.

suffered a setback

Replaces the phrase, pointing to a temporary regression or hindrance.

were badly received

Focuses on the reception or acceptance of something, suitable for describing public or critical reactions.

proved unsatisfactory

Replaces with a more standard expression of inadequacy.

FAQs

What's a more formal way to say "got dismal"?

Alternatives like "became bleak" or "turned grim" offer a more polished and widely accepted alternative for formal contexts.

Is "got dismal" grammatically correct?

While understandable in casual conversation, "got dismal" isn't considered standard English. Opt for grammatically sound alternatives to maintain clarity and professionalism.

When is it okay to use "got dismal"?

"Got dismal" might be acceptable in very informal conversations or personal writing where a casual tone is desired. However, it's best to avoid it in professional or academic contexts.

What does "got dismal" mean?

The phrase means something became depressing or deteriorated in quality. However, it's not a standard English expression, so alternatives are preferable.