Question

After losing his job, he was down in the dumps for weeks.

• A. In a messy place
• B. Feeling very happy
• C. Feeling sad and depressed
• D. In financial trouble

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Feeling sad and depressed

Understanding the Idiom: 'Down in the Dumps'

• The phrase 'down in the dumps' is an English idiom that means to be feeling very sad, depressed, or low-spirited. It indicates a state of melancholy or despondency.
• When someone is 'down in the dumps,' they are often experiencing a period of unhappiness, dejection, or gloom, usually due to a particular setback or disappointment, as in the given example of losing a job.

• Origin and Etymology

  • While the exact origin is not definitively pinpointed, the term 'dumps' used in this context has been recorded since the 16th century, referring to a state of dejection or low spirits.
  • It is believed to derive from the Middle Dutch word 'domp' meaning 'haze' or 'damp' conditions, which historically were associated with feelings of gloom and melancholy.
  • The addition of 'down in' emphasizes the depth of the feeling, suggesting being deeply immersed in sadness.

• Common Synonyms and Related Phrases for Competitive Exams

  • Feeling blue
  • Dejected
  • Despondent
  • Glum
  • Melancholy
  • Down in the mouth
  • In low spirits
  • Morose
  • Crestfallen

• Antonyms (Opposite Meanings)

  • On top of the world
  • Elated
  • Joyful
  • Ecstatic
  • Overjoyed

• Usage in Competitive Exams

  • This idiom is frequently tested in vocabulary and comprehension sections of competitive exams to assess a candidate's understanding of idiomatic expressions.
  • Questions often involve identifying the correct meaning of the idiom in a given sentence or choosing the appropriate idiom to fit a context.
  • Understanding such phrases is crucial for improving reading comprehension and effective communication skills.