A counsel of despair

usgb
noun

Advice or suggestion that reveals a pessimistic or hopeless outlook.

He said learning a new language at my age is tough, but I refuse to take that as a counsel of despair.
Visual representation of "a counsel of despair" - Advice or suggestion that reveals a pessimistic or hopeless outlook

Often appears as...

  • offer a counsel of despair
  • take as a counsel of despair

Usage tips

Formal

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "a counsel of despair"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Pessimistic Outlook

Indicates the speaker thinks a situation has little or no hope of improving. It reflects negativity.

Illustration for Pessimistic Outlook
Most people's advice on climate change has turned into a counsel of despair.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Responding to Advice

Consider the intention behind the phrase – whether it's to discourage action or to express genuine doubt.

Illustration for Responding to Advice
Her suggestion to drop the project was like a counsel of despair, but I knew she meant well.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Emotional Weight

This phrase adds emotional impact to a conversation, often evoking a sense of resignation or defeat.

Illustration for Emotional Weight
The old man's words were a counsel of despair, leaving the room in somber silence.
Visual representation of the word "A counsel of despair"

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