head hanging low

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'head hanging low' is a valid and correct English phrase.
It is usually used to describe an attitude of sorrow, disappointment, shame, or regret. For example, "The accused hung his head low in shame when the verdict was read."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

An Ethiopian wolf, head hanging low, straining forward, scenting the air speculatively.

Independent

Neal was on all fours behind me, his head hanging low.

The New Yorker

McDowell then hooks one deep into the nonsense, before trudging off after it with his head hanging low.

The Guardian - Sport

[audio url="https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/196827065"] Neal was on all fours behind me, his head hanging low.

The New Yorker

Two agents were dispatched, and a few minutes later Alex, a tall man in a summer-weight beige jacket, appeared in the hallway, his head hanging low.

The New Yorker

Just watch bashful Pete, shaggy head hanging low, chin on chest, shambling onto the court and firing hard serves and — what the heck is that guy doing?

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Most wore sunglasses with their heads hanging low or walked close with one of their colleagues.

The New York Times - Arts

A running feature of many of the newspapers is crime suspects with their heads hanging low being paraded before the news media by scowling police officers.

The New York Times

Heads hanging low, iced-out fingers clutching mics, the trio rains their triplet flows into the crowd.

Vice

The most popular second-floor display is a photo collection of captured drug producers and drug traffickers, who have been made to stand beside their illicit goods with heads hanging low in shame.

Vice

We headed for Jupiter, hanging low above the trees, and as we walked, I pictured the station back on the ridge, wrapped in the same darkness.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "head hanging low" to vividly depict a character's emotional state, such as shame, sadness, or defeat, making sure the context supports this interpretation.

Common error

Avoid repeatedly describing characters with their "head hanging low" during dialogue. Vary your descriptions by focusing on other nonverbal cues like tone of voice, hand gestures, or facial expressions to add depth without being repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "head hanging low" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, often describing how someone is moving or behaving. It typically adds detail to the action, conveying a specific emotional state. Ludwig examples showcase this function, illustrating how the phrase enriches the description of the subject's demeanor.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Science

14%

Encyclopedias

13%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "head hanging low" effectively conveys feelings of sadness, shame, or defeat. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media. While versatile, consider varying descriptions to avoid repetition in writing. Alternative phrases such as "downcast gaze" or "shoulders slumped" can add nuance. With a neutral register, it fits various contexts, making it a valuable tool for writers aiming to evoke empathy and understanding.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

defeated posture

Specifically uses "defeated" to describe the posture, conveying a sense of loss.

downcast gaze

Focuses on the eyes and direction of sight, emphasizing the feeling of dejection.

dejected demeanor

Emphasizes the overall behavior expressing sadness or disappointment.

crestfallen expression

Highlights the disappointed facial expression.

ashamed countenance

Highlights the shame reflected in one's facial expression.

shoulders slumped

Shifts focus to the body posture to show defeat or sadness.

withdrawn posture

Highlights the act of physically retreating or becoming less engaged.

spirit crushed

Uses a metaphorical expression to describe the feeling of defeat.

heart heavy

Focuses on the emotional burden and sadness.

inconsolable grief

Refers to a state of extreme sadness that cannot be comforted.

FAQs

How can I use "head hanging low" in a sentence?

You can use "head hanging low" to describe someone feeling dejected, ashamed, or defeated, such as "After the loss, the team walked off the field, their "head hanging low"".

What does it mean when someone has their "head hanging low"?

When someone has their "head hanging low", it typically indicates they are feeling sad, ashamed, disappointed, or defeated. It's a physical manifestation of a negative emotional state.

What are some alternatives to saying "head hanging low"?

Alternatives to "head hanging low" include "downcast gaze", "crestfallen expression", or "shoulders slumped", each emphasizing a slightly different aspect of the emotion.

Is it appropriate to use "head hanging low" in formal writing?

Yes, it is appropriate to use "head hanging low" in formal writing, but consider your audience and the overall tone. While generally acceptable, more nuanced or descriptive language might be preferable in some academic contexts.