lackluster response

USAGE SUMMARY

"lackluster response" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that someone's response or reaction was unenthusiastic or unimpressive. For example, you might say, "The audience gave a lackluster response to the singer's performance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was a lackluster response that Lauren Fine, an analyst with Merrill Lynch, seemed to anticipate.

The New York Times

In housing, consumers have already shown a lackluster response to low rates.

The New York Times

Despite the lackluster response, Mr. Walters will probably try another coupon.

The New York Times

Despite an initial lackluster response, excitement has been building for the release of Apple's newest iPhone, the 4S.

The New York Times

The company's lackluster response to the breach has prompted consumer outrage, while lawmakers have begun pushing for tougher oversight of the industry.

The New York Times

Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo's lackluster response to an ambitious plan to fix the subway led to questions about his support for the system's new leader.

The New York Times

The wisest assessment of the lackluster response, thus far, to Throw Trucks With Your Mind comes from its creator himself, Lat Ware.

MIT Technology Review

Senators also pressed Mr. Pompeo on the Trump administration's lackluster response to October's gruesome killing by Saudi agents of Jamal Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist and Virginia resident.

The New York Times

The lackluster response by some in the international community risks long-term consequences — and not just for Ukraine but for the whole of Europe.

The Washington Post

To some of the younger embroidery manufacturers, the lackluster response to the state's program reflects a horse-and-buggy mentality that is holding the industry back.

The New York Times

Frustrated advocates and medical professionals say the District's lackluster response would never have been tolerated in whiter and more affluent neighborhoods.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When employing the phrase, consider what was expected versus what actually occurred. The contrast amplifies the impact of describing something as a "lackluster response".

Common error

While "lackluster response" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly informal settings where simpler words like "meh" or "weak" might be more appropriate. It is a nuanced phrase for professional communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lackluster response" functions as a noun phrase, where 'lackluster' is an adjective modifying the noun 'response.' It describes the quality of the response, indicating that it is uninspiring or inadequate. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

19%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lackluster response" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe an unenthusiastic or inadequate reaction. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and widely used. It is primarily found in News & Media and Academic sources, indicating a neutral to formal register. When writing, consider the context to ensure the phrase aligns with the desired level of formality. Alternatives like "unenthusiastic reaction" or "tepid reaction" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. The phrase's frequent use underscores its relevance in both describing and evaluating responses across various scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unenthusiastic reaction

Focuses on the absence of enthusiasm in the response.

tepid reaction

Implies a lukewarm or mild response, lacking intensity.

weak response

Highlights the feebleness or ineffectiveness of the response.

underwhelming reaction

Emphasizes that the response failed to impress or excite.

poor reception

Indicates that the response was not well-received.

disappointing reaction

Conveys that the response fell short of expectations.

feeble answer

Suggests a weak or inadequate reply.

apathetic reaction

Highlights the lack of interest or concern in the response.

muted response

Implies a quiet or restrained reaction, lacking vigor.

dull reception

Indicates a boring or uninspired reaction.

FAQs

How can I use "lackluster response" in a sentence?

You can use "lackluster response" to describe an unenthusiastic or weak reaction to something. For example, "The new product received a "lackluster response" from consumers".

What are some alternatives to "lackluster response"?

Some alternatives include "unenthusiastic reaction", "tepid reaction", or "weak response", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "lackluster response" formal or informal?

"Lackluster response" is appropriate for both formal and informal contexts, but it leans towards being more suitable for professional or neutral communications. Simpler terms might be preferred in very casual settings.

Which is correct, "lackluster response" or "unenthusiastic response"?

Both "lackluster response" and "unenthusiastic response" are correct. "Lackluster" implies a certain level of disappointment or inadequacy, while "unenthusiastic" simply indicates a lack of excitement.