Explore the origins, meanings, and cultural significance of the phrase 'a sinking feeling,' a term denoting a sense of distress or unease.
A “sinking feeling” refers to a sense of distress or unease, often physically perceived as a sensation in the midsection. This feeling is typically associated with emotions such as fear, anxiety, or discouragement.
The phrase “a sinking feeling” originated in the late nineteenth century. It metaphorically describes the physical sensation of one’s stomach dropping, which can occur in response to hunger, fear, or discouragement. Notably, around 1920, the phrase gained prominence through an advertising slogan for Bovril, a brand of beef extract marketed as a restorative: “Bovril prevents that sinking feeling.” This slogan capitalized on the phrase’s connotations of weakness and the need for sustenance.
The semantic nuances of “a sinking feeling” encompass a range of emotional states, primarily negative, including anxiety, dread, and apprehension. The phrase suggests an involuntary, often visceral reaction to an anticipated or real negative event. It is frequently used to describe moments of sudden realization or foreboding.
In contemporary culture, “a sinking feeling” is employed across various media to convey moments of tension or impending trouble. Literature and film often utilize the phrase to enhance narrative tension or character development. For example, authors may describe a character’s reaction to bad news as a “sinking feeling” to evoke empathy and understanding from the audience.
The phrase “a sinking feeling” can vary in meaning depending on context. In professional settings, it might describe anxiety over job security, while in personal contexts, it could denote fear of relationship issues. In literature, it is often used to foreshadow negative plot developments.
The phrase “a sinking feeling” remains relevant in modern discourse due to its evocative nature and ability to succinctly convey complex emotional states. Its continued use in literature, media, and everyday conversation suggests a high degree of durability.
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“He had a sinking feeling that he was about to be caught in a web of his own making.” - Agatha Christie, Murder on the Orient Express
“With every step, she felt a sinking feeling, as if the ground beneath her was about to give way.” - J.K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince