The phrase "bringing back life" typically refers to the concept of restoring vitality, energy, or positivity to a situation or environment. Antonyms for this idea would include concepts like depressing, demoralizing, and draining. A situation that lacks life or vitality might be described with words like dreary, lifeless, or morose. Similarly, actions or attitudes that do not bring back life might be characterized as apathetic, disheartening, or discouraging. Antonyms for this phrase can help to identify negative behaviors, thoughts, or outcomes that detract from the goal of creating a thriving and energized environment.