The idiomatic expression "are down in the mouth" means to be sad or depressed. The pronunciation of this phrase is /ər daʊn ɪn ðə maʊθ/. The spelling of the word "are" represents the contraction of the verb "to be" and is pronounced /ər/. The word "down" is spelled phonetically according to the pronunciation of the sound /daʊn/. Finally, "mouth" is pronounced as /maʊθ/ with the use of the digraph "ou" to represent the diphthong sound in English.
To be "down in the mouth" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a state of disappointment, sadness, or low spirits. It implies that someone is feeling dejected, disheartened or unhappy, often because of a specific circumstance or event. This phrase, derived from the image of a downturned mouth symbolizing a frown or a sad expression, conveys a feeling of despondency or gloom.
When someone is "down in the mouth," they exhibit physical and emotional signs of sadness, such as droopy facial expressions, long sighs, and a lackluster demeanor. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including personal setbacks, failures, or losses. The individual may feel hopeless, pessimistic, or defeated, resulting in reduced motivation and energy levels.
Moreover, being "down in the mouth" can also refer to a general state of discontentment or dissatisfaction with life. It suggests that the person is experiencing a prolonged period of unhappiness or a persistent negative outlook on their circumstances.
This phrase is often used in informal contexts to describe people feeling glum or expressing their disappointment. It serves as a metaphorical expression that vividly portrays an individual's somber emotions, emphasizing the downward turn of the mouth as a visual representation of sadness or melancholy.