Doldrums refers to a state of stagnation, inactivity, or a period of low energy and productivity. Originally, the term came from a region of the ocean near the equator, where the winds were calm and sailing ships often became stuck for extended periods. Over time, the term has been used figuratively to describe a mental or emotional state where a person feels down, unmotivated, or uninspired. It can also refer to a situation where progress seems halted, or there is a lack of excitement or change.
Here are 10 sentences using “doldrums” to clarify its meaning:
- After months of struggling with writer’s block, he felt like he was stuck in the doldrums with no way out.
- The company had been in the doldrums for years, with little innovation or growth in sight.
- After a busy summer, the office seemed to fall into the doldrums as the holiday season approached.
- She was in the doldrums after finishing her degree, unsure of what direction to take next.
- The team’s performance was in the doldrums, with no victories in their last five games.
- The economy was in the doldrums, and many businesses struggled to stay afloat during the recession.
- During the long winter months, many people feel in the doldrums due to lack of sunlight.
- The city’s cultural scene seemed to be in the doldrums, with fewer events and activities than before.
- He was going through the doldrums, feeling a lack of motivation and struggling to find joy in his usual hobbies.
- The company finally broke out of the doldrums after launching a new product that revived interest in their brand.
Synonyms for “doldrums”:
- Slump
- Rut
- Stagnation
- Low point
- Inactivity
- Lull
- Depression
- Stasis
- Standstill
- Malaise
Antonyms for “doldrums”:
- Peak
- Prosperity
- Flourishing
- Growth
- Excitement
- Progress
- Thriving
- Uplift
- Momentum
- Success
Related Words:
- Apathy
- Languor
- Low energy
- Decline
- Depression
- Exhaustion
- Boredom
- Ennui
- Stagnancy
- Disinterest
Idiomatic Expressions:
- “In a rut” – A state of being stuck in a routine, similar to being in the doldrums.
- “In a slump” – A period of poor performance or inactivity, much like being in the doldrums.
- “Down in the dumps” – To feel depressed or in a low mood, akin to being in the doldrums.
- “Hitting a wall” – Refers to a point where progress stops, similar to the feeling of being stuck in the doldrums.
- “Burned out” – A term used when someone feels mentally or physically exhausted, which can contribute to a feeling of being in the doldrums.
