grave mood

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "grave mood" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a serious or somber emotional state or atmosphere. Example: "The news of the tragedy cast a grave mood over the entire community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A 1973 untitled work in two shades of milky brown is composed of rectangles within rectangles, its grave mood undercut by rounded corners that lend a cartoonish air.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

It is the classic gesture of contemplation, familiar to both General MacArthur and Jack Benny, and Clare manages to emanate both their moods at once — grave but also strangely comical.

The New Yorker

Ballesteros also met a watery grave, his mood darkening as much as the weather.

The Guardian - Sport

Around some of the graves, the mood is almost festive, though restrained, as relatives and friends who are scattered at other times come together with their memories.

The New York Times

What seemed miraculous when the film first opened remains its greatest coup: Godard's ability to infuse an improvisatory manner with an underlying mood of grave inevitability.

The New York Times

The mood has become so grave that the state's normally cautious governor, Benjamin J. Cayetano, has warned that "Hawaii is facing its worst economic crisis ever" and called an emergency session of the Legislature to borrow $1 billion to stimulate the economy.

The New York Times

Dozens of palm crosses, brightly colored spring bouquets and three balloons — many, Mr. Buonocore said, brought to other graves for Easter — belied the subdued mood at the cemetery, where wails and cries could be heard out on the street.

The New York Times

The IRR was even higher for Graves' disease, namely 1.28 (1.12–1.45 CI) in mood disorder patients without infections and 1.90 (1.63 2.21 CI) for mood disorder patients with infections.

International Journal of Bipolar Disorders

Watched one after another, the video clips illuminate an untapped corner of the city's hive mind, a brainstorming session whose mood ranges from lighthearted to grave.

The New York Times

The evidence of enduring affection at his grave is in contrast to the gloomy mood and hulking headstone that signifies the end of William Bosss" Tweed, City Hall's thieving politician who died in 1878.

The New York Times

The luminous acting by the barefoot, multi-ethnic cast of four beautifully serves the production's beguiling mix of grave sorrow and mischievous levity, its shifting moods underscored by the virtuosic Japanese percussionist, Toshi Tsuchitori, on his lone traditional drum.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "grave mood" to effectively communicate a serious or somber emotional state in writing, particularly when describing events or situations that evoke such feelings.

Common error

Avoid using "grave mood" in informal or lighthearted contexts. It's best suited for describing serious situations or moments that warrant a sense of gravity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grave mood" functions primarily as an adjective-noun combination that modifies a scene or an emotional state. It describes the quality of the mood, indicating its seriousness and solemnity, as also suggested by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "grave mood" is a grammatically sound phrase used to depict a serious or somber emotional atmosphere. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s suitable for formal writing and descriptive narratives. While "grave mood" isn't overly common, according to its frequency, when used, it effectively conveys a sense of gravity and significance, most often within News & Media contexts. When selecting an alternative, it's important to consider the precise nuance you want to convey. Overall, understanding its proper usage ensures clear and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

somber atmosphere

Focuses on the environment rather than the emotional state.

solemn atmosphere

Similar to 'somber atmosphere' but often associated with rituals or ceremonies.

serious demeanor

Highlights the outward behavior and attitude of a person.

subdued atmosphere

Describes a quiet and restrained environment, lacking intensity.

gloomy sentiment

Conveys a pessimistic or despondent feeling.

melancholy feeling

Emphasizes a feeling of pensive sadness, typically with no obvious cause.

oppressive atmosphere

Focuses on a heavy and burdensome environment.

austere mood

Implies a stern, unadorned, or strict emotional state.

heavy-heartedness

Highlights a sense of sorrow or grief.

downcast spirits

Refers to a state of low morale or unhappiness within a group.

FAQs

How can I use "grave mood" in a sentence?

You can use "grave mood" to describe a serious or somber atmosphere or emotional state. For instance, "The news of the accident cast a "grave mood" over the town."

What are some alternatives to "grave mood"?

Alternatives include "somber atmosphere", "serious demeanor", or "solemn atmosphere", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is "grave mood" formal or informal?

"Grave mood" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal expression, suitable for news reports, serious discussions, and descriptive writing. It is not typically used in very casual conversation.

When is it appropriate to use "grave mood"?

It's appropriate when describing situations characterized by seriousness, sadness, or concern. For example, you might use it to describe the atmosphere after a tragedy or during a moment of significant consequence.