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In a work setting, 'in the doldrums' describes someone who's not getting the recognition they expect, like a project lead who feels sidelined after a new manager takes over. It captures that quiet frustration where effort is there but approval is missing.

Among Gen Z, 'in the doldrums' can be used humorously to express boredom with online dating, as in, 'I’m in the doldrums because every match just sends a cat photo and a smiley face.' It's a playful way to show they're disengaged and not hopeful about their dating prospects.

In a relationship context, 'in the doldrums' suggests a couple is going through the motions, like when they stop planning date nights and just eat dinner together without talking. It's the feeling of being together but not really connected anymore.

For older generations, 'in the doldrums' might describe a sense of loss after retirement, like a former teacher who feels untethered without the structure of lesson plans and student interactions to anchor their day.

Culturally, 'in the doldrums' can be used to talk about a city or town in economic decline, such as when a local café owner says, 'We've been in the doldrums since the factory closed, and there's no new investment coming in.' It's a way to show things are slow and not looking up.