at a low ebb
Emotions & feelings · Filed under A
In a sentence
- After losing his job, his confidence was at a low ebb.
- During the winter months, our motivation can be at a low ebb.
- After the death of his father, his energy and enthusiasm were at a low ebb.
Where it comes from and how it is used
The idiom "at a low ebb" is closely related to other idioms that express a similar sense of decline or negativity. One such idiom is "down in the dumps," which is often used to describe a person who is feeling sad, depressed, or downcast. Like "at a low ebb," this idiom conveys a sense of being in a state of emotional decline or distress.
These idioms, including "down in the dumps," "hang low," and "on the wane," all express a similar concept to "at a low ebb." They convey a state of decline, weakness, or depression, whether it be emotional, physical, or otherwise. These idioms are used in various contexts to describe situations of difficulty, hardship, or decreased significance.
Neighbouring idioms
- down in the dumpsEmotions & feelings
- hang low
- on the wane
- down at heelBody, health & looks
- go downhill
- down and outTrouble & conflict
- down on one's uppers
- in a stateTruth, lies & confusion
Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.