in the gloom

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in the gloom" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or environment that is dark, shadowy, or lacking in light, often evoking a sense of sadness or foreboding. Example: "The old house stood silent in the gloom, its windows dark and uninviting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Fireflies sparkle in the gloom.

The Economist

Ceiling lights twinkled in the gloom.

The New York Times

"Joe?" she calls out in the gloom.

The Guardian - Sport

We drove into Cornish in the gloom.

The New Yorker

The piano played in the gloom of the farthest corner.

The New Yorker

Sometimes, in the gloom, the arms are all you see.

The New York Times - Arts

An exit sign glowed red in the gloom.

The New Yorker

"In the gloom, the gold gathers the light against it".

The New Yorker

In the gloom, the tourists won by six wickets.

Independent

Lead of 300 here for Worcestershire in the gloom.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

You have to avoid being sucked in by the gloom.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in the gloom" to create a specific atmosphere or mood in your writing. It's particularly effective when describing scenes that evoke mystery, suspense, or melancholy.

Common error

Avoid using "in the gloom" in every dark scene; vary your descriptive language to prevent your writing from sounding repetitive or melodramatic. Alternatives like "in the darkness" or "in the shadows" might be more suitable depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in the gloom" functions primarily as an adverbial prepositional phrase, modifying verbs or clauses by specifying the location or condition in which an action occurs. Ludwig AI shows examples where it sets the scene or provides context, such as "Fireflies sparkle "in the gloom"."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "in the gloom" is a versatile prepositional phrase, primarily functioning as an adverbial modifier to set a scene or convey a specific atmosphere of darkness or mystery. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used, especially in news and media contexts. While appropriate for formal writing, writers should avoid overuse to maintain variety and impact. Alternatives like "in the darkness" or "in the shadows" can provide subtle shifts in meaning. Mastering the use of "in the gloom" enriches descriptive writing by adding depth and emotional resonance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in the darkness

Focuses more on the absence of light, a literal lack of visibility.

in the shadows

Implies a hidden or less visible area, possibly suggesting secrecy or concealment.

under dim light

Highlights the poor illumination, more descriptive and less evocative.

in the twilight

Refers specifically to the period between day and night, suggesting transition.

in semi-darkness

Emphasizes the partial lack of light, a more technical description.

amidst the dimness

Similar to "in the gloom" but with a slightly more literary or formal tone.

in the murk

Suggests a dark and obscure atmosphere, potentially with fog or cloudiness.

in the half-light

Indicates a faint or weak light source, emphasizing the limited visibility.

under the veil of darkness

Emphasizes the concealing nature of the darkness, often used metaphorically.

in the obscurity

Focuses on the lack of clarity or understanding, more abstract than literal darkness.

FAQs

How can I use "in the gloom" in a sentence?

"In the gloom" is a prepositional phrase used to describe a setting or situation characterized by darkness or dim light. For example, "Fireflies sparkle "in the gloom"" or "The only light came from the headlights of cars hissing by "in the gloom"".

What are some alternatives to "in the gloom"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "in the darkness", "in the shadows", or "under dim light".

Is it appropriate to use "in the gloom" in formal writing?

Yes, "in the gloom" is suitable for various writing styles, including formal contexts, especially when setting a specific mood or describing a scene. However, consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing to ensure it fits appropriately.

What's the difference between "in the gloom" and "in the dark"?

While both phrases describe a lack of light, "in the gloom" often carries a slightly more evocative or atmospheric connotation, suggesting a sense of mystery or foreboding. "In the dark" is generally more literal and straightforward in describing the absence of light.