flagging spirits

[ˈflæɡɪŋ ˈspɪrɪts]
noun phrase
ânimo em queda; moral decaindo; disposição diminuindo
1. A state of declining enthusiasm, energy, or morale; loss of motivation or confidence
After losing three games in a row, the team's flagging spirits needed a boost from their coach.
Depois de perder três jogos seguidos, o ânimo em queda do time precisava de um incentivo do treinador.
2. Diminishing emotional or psychological resilience; weakening determination
The long project had flagging spirits among the workers by the final month.
O projeto longo deixou a moral dos trabalhadores em declínio no mês final.
This phrase is commonly used in both American and Brazilian contexts, particularly in sports, workplace, and educational settings. In Brazil, it often reflects the cultural value placed on collective optimism and group morale (espírito de equipe). In the USA, it's frequently used in motivational and performance contexts. The expression carries implications that intervention or encouragement is needed to reverse the decline.
NYC Slang
spirits down; energy low; vibe's dead; morale's tanking
Synonyms / Sinônimos
waning enthusiasmdeclining moralefaltering confidencediminishing energysagging motivation
Antonyms / Antônimos
rising spiritsboosted moralerenewed enthusiasmgrowing confidenceelevated mood

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
ânimo em queda; moral decaindo
Most common and understood across all regions
Rio de Janeiro
disposição caindo; entusiasmo em baixa
Colloquial usage in informal contexts
São Paulo
moral em declínio; ânimo abalado
More formal business and professional contexts
Portugal
moral em baixa; ânimo decaído; disposição diminuída
Similar usage but with slightly different emphasis on individual determination

Related Words

moraleenthusiasmmotivationresiliencedeterminationconfidencefatiguediscouragement

Related Idioms & Phrases

lift someone's spirits
dampen someone's spirits
keep one's spirits up
break someone's spirit
in good spirits
in poor spirits
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