English Idioms

Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms

Black mood

Meaning

The idiom "black mood" refers to a state of sadness, depression or melancholy. It is often used to describe someone who is feeling down, upset, or out of sorts. The term "black" is not meant to be taken literally, but rather as a metaphor for the depth and intensity of the person's emotions.

Usage

  • She was in a black mood after losing her job.
  • He had been in a black mood ever since the argument with his wife.
  • The weather was gloomy and rainy, adding to her already black mood.
  • I tried to cheer her up, but she was too far gone into her black mood.
  • She spent the entire day in bed, feeling utterly hopeless and in a black mood.

Roots and History

The origin of the idiom "black mood" is not entirely clear, but it has been in use since at least the 17th century. It may be related to the idea that people who are feeling down or depressed tend to have a darker outlook on life, or to the fact that some cultures associate darkness with sadness and melancholy. Over time, the idiom has become more commonly used in everyday language as a way to describe someone who is feeling blue.

Synonyms in English

  • Blue mood
  • Gloomy mood
  • Dull mood
  • Grumpy mood
  • Black-hearted mood

Synonyms in other languages

  • French: "moodreux" - a feeling of sadness or melancholy
  • Spanish: "tristeza" - a state of sadness or depression
  • German: "Melancolie" - a state of sadness or melancholy
  • Italian: "tristezza" - a state of sadness or depression
  • Japanese: "yūgen" - a feeling of sadness and melancholy, often associated with beauty

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