Cooking with gas is a phrase often used to describe a successful and efficient process or event. However, antonyms for this phrase can include "working in slow motion," "struggling to get by," and "failing to make progress." Other possible antonyms might include "fumbling," "inefficient," "ineffective," or "bucking the trend." Whether in the kitchen or in other areas of life, the opposite of cooking with gas is a frustrating experience that can leave one feeling stuck and hopeless. Instead of feeling accomplished and energized, those who are not cooking with gas may find themselves feeling stuck in a rut and unable to make any real progress.