Grammar fix
be down in the dumps
feel very gloomy
To feel noticeably sad, miserable, or without much energy.
How oftenCommon
LevelB2
Used inMostly spoken
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
He's been down in the dumps since his favourite team lost the final.
I sometimes get down in the dumps when I spend too much time alone, so I usually call a friend or go for a walk.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: I'm down in dumps today.
Say: I'm down in the dumps today.
Keep the article 'the' in this fixed expression.
Don't confuse it
Other ways to say it
Be in a sad mood
How strongDownVery gloomy
feeling downA gentle, informal description of a low mood.feel lowFeeling emotionally unhappy or lacking your usual spirits.
be down in the dumpsYou're here · Informal: feeling noticeably gloomy or miserable.