grow numb

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "grow numb" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of becoming emotionally or physically unresponsive or desensitized over time. Example: "After years of witnessing such violence, I began to grow numb to the suffering around me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

They do not permit the reader to grow numb.

The New York Times

May it never hurt less, so we never grow numb to the loss".

Independent

I felt myself grow numb, but I refused to be afraid.

The New York Times

I expected to be desensitised, grow numb and lose track of things after months of war.

Independent

Will audiences simply grow numb to yet another Marvel superheroes-save-the-world extravaganza?

The Guardian - Film

The man answers that his feet will grow numb, then his legs; then the poison will work its way up to his heart.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

By trying to be normal they grew numb.

The New Yorker

Also, we've grown numb to the Senate's paralysis.

The New Yorker

Yet, bathed in the cool water, it quickly grew numb.

The New Yorker

"And the more I went -- I grew numb to it".

The New York Times

The wind was biting, and over time toes grew numb.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "grow numb" to describe a gradual process of becoming less sensitive to something, whether physically or emotionally. It often implies a negative consequence of repeated exposure or trauma.

Common error

Avoid using "grow numb" to describe a temporary physical sensation, such as a limb falling asleep. Reserve it for situations where there is a lasting reduction in sensitivity or emotional response over time.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grow numb" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as a predicate expressing a state of becoming emotionally or physically desensitized. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's correct usage and illustrates this function through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "grow numb" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a gradual desensitization, either physically or emotionally. As Ludwig AI highlights, it frequently appears in news and media contexts, illustrating its relevance in discussing emotional detachment or loss of sensitivity to repeated experiences. While often carrying a negative connotation, indicating a decline in emotional responsiveness, it can also portray a coping mechanism. When writing, remember that "grow numb" implies a process of becoming less sensitive over time, distinguishing it from temporary sensations or sudden emotional shifts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

become desensitized

Emphasizes a loss of sensitivity, often in response to repeated exposure.

lose feeling

Focuses on the absence of physical or emotional sensation.

become indifferent

Highlights a lack of interest or concern, suggesting emotional detachment.

turn apathetic

Indicates a state of listlessness or lack of motivation.

harden one's heart

Implies a deliberate emotional closing-off in response to hardship or pain.

become jaded

Suggests a cynical or disillusioned outlook, often after negative experiences.

develop tolerance

Specifically denotes adaptation in relation to certain things.

become unaffected

Points out the absence of emotional and physical reactions.

shut down emotionally

Expresses a state of mind of rejecting the emotion

numb out

Informal phrase indicating a deliberate attempt to suppress emotions.

FAQs

How can I use "grow numb" in a sentence?

Use "grow numb" to describe the process of becoming less sensitive to something, emotionally or physically, often due to repeated exposure. For example, "After years of working in the emergency room, the doctor began to "grow numb" to the suffering she witnessed."

What's the difference between ""grow numb"" and "become desensitized"?

"Grow numb" suggests a gradual loss of feeling, while "become desensitized" emphasizes a reduction in emotional responsiveness, often due to overexposure.

What can I say instead of ""grow numb""?

You can use alternatives like "become desensitized", "lose feeling", or "become indifferent" depending on the specific context.

Is it always negative to ""grow numb"" to something?

While often used in negative contexts, ""grow numb"" can also describe a necessary coping mechanism. For instance, soldiers in combat might "grow numb" to violence to function effectively.