the doldrums

USAGE SUMMARY

The term "the doldrums" is perfectly correct and usable in written English.
It is an idiom usually used to refer to a state of listlessness, stagnation, and despondency. For example: "I've been in the doldrums ever since my job loss; I just can't seem to get motivated to look for a new one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Europe remains in the doldrums.

The New York Times

Manufacturing remained in the doldrums.

The Economist

"I'm in the doldrums.

The Guardian

The economy was in the doldrums.

The Economist

The economy is stuck in the doldrums.

The New York Times

World trade is in the doldrums.

The Economist

The dinosaur market is in the doldrums.

The Economist

I'll give them The Doldrums.

The Guardian - Music

"I'm not falling into the doldrums.

The New York Times - Arts

Only Europe remains in the doldrums.

Independent

The UAE is still in the doldrums.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the doldrums" to describe periods of stagnation, inactivity, or emotional slump in various contexts such as economy, career, or personal life. It effectively conveys a sense of being stuck or lacking progress.

Common error

Avoid using "the doldrums" to describe literal weather conditions or geographical locations. While the term originates from a nautical context, it's now primarily used figuratively to describe states of inactivity or stagnation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the doldrums" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or object of a preposition. As Ludwig AI explains, it's an idiom used to describe a state of inactivity, stagnation, or depression. Examples in Ludwig show its use in various contexts like economy and personal mood.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Formal & Business

12%

Science

3%

Less common in

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the doldrums" is an idiomatic noun phrase used to describe a state of inactivity, stagnation, or depression. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it effectively conveys a lack of progress or energy. While originating from nautical terminology, its current usage is figurative and suitable for various communication styles. Alternative phrases include "in a slump" or "lacking momentum", providing writers with options to express similar meanings with slight nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a slump

Replaces "doldrums" with a term suggesting a decline or downturn in activity or performance.

in a stagnant period

Substitutes "doldrums" with a more descriptive phrase emphasizing the lack of progress or movement.

in a state of inertia

Replaces "doldrums" with a phrase highlighting the lack of motivation or ability to act.

experiencing a lull

Offers a less negative alternative, suggesting a temporary pause in activity rather than a decline.

facing a standstill

Replaces "doldrums" with an expression that conveys a complete halt or cessation of progress.

in a period of inactivity

A straightforward substitute emphasizing the lack of activity or progress.

going through a slow patch

Replaces "doldrums" with a more informal and less severe expression.

lacking momentum

Highlights the absence of driving force or energy needed for progress.

in a decline

Focuses on the downward trend or deterioration associated with the "doldrums".

undergoing a quiet spell

A neutral alternative suggesting a temporary period of reduced activity or excitement.

FAQs

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

"The doldrums" typically describes a state of inactivity or stagnation, as in: "The economy has been in "the doldrums" for the past year."

What's a less formal way to say "the doldrums"?

Informal alternatives include phrases like "in a slump", "going through a slow patch", or "lacking momentum" depending on the specific context.

Can "the doldrums" be used to describe a person's mood?

Yes, "the doldrums" can describe a person's mood, indicating a state of listlessness or depression. For example, "After the holiday season, I often find myself in "the doldrums"."

What are some business-related synonyms for "the doldrums"?

In a business context, "the doldrums" can be replaced with phrases like "stagnant period", "economic slowdown", or "period of inactivity" to describe a lack of growth or progress.