In unison

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "In unison" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe people or things that are doing something together at the same time or in harmony. Example: "The choir sang in unison, creating a beautiful and powerful sound."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

In unison.

The New York Times - Sports

In unison now.

Vice

danced in unison.

The New Yorker

"You!" we exclaimed in unison.

The New York Times

"Yes," the screamed in unison.

The New York Times

"Nooooooo!" they called, in unison.

The New Yorker

Both girls answered in unison.

The New York Times

We performed them in unison.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Aaagh," they screamed in unison.

The New York Times

They danced in unison.

The Washington Post

Cores tightened in unison.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "in unison" to emphasize precise coordination or agreement in actions or expressions. For example, "The team members responded "in unison" to the question" highlights their complete agreement.

Common error

Avoid using "in unison" when a simple "together" or "simultaneously" suffices. "They walked together" is preferable to "They walked in unison" if perfect synchronization isn't crucial to the meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in unison" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to describe how an action is performed. It indicates that an action is carried out simultaneously and harmoniously by multiple entities. Ludwig's examples show it qualifying verbs like "danced", "exclaimed", and "shouted", adding detail about the manner of these actions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

97%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in unison" is a common and grammatically correct adverbial phrase used to describe actions performed simultaneously and harmoniously. As Ludwig confirms, it's prevalent in news and media, signifying a coordinated effort or agreement. When using "in unison", ensure it accurately reflects synchronized action, avoiding overuse where simpler terms like "together" suffice. Related phrases include ""simultaneously"", ""together"", and ""in concert"", each with slightly different nuances. Remember that while versatile, the phrase is most impactful when perfect synchronization is essential to the meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in concert

Implies a coordinated effort, similar to musical harmony, often used in more formal contexts.

as one

Emphasizes unity and collective action, often with a more dramatic or emphatic tone.

in chorus

Suggests a group speaking or singing together, often used in a literal or figurative sense.

simultaneously

Focuses on the timing of the action, emphasizing that it occurs at the same moment.

concurrently

Formally states that actions or events happen at the same time.

with one voice

Specifically refers to speaking or expressing an opinion collectively.

in sync

Suggests a harmonious alignment or agreement, often used in informal settings.

in step

Implies following the same rhythm or direction, often used metaphorically for agreement.

together

A broader term indicating joint action, without necessarily implying perfect synchronization.

in agreement

Highlights the shared opinion or decision leading to a unified action.

FAQs

How can I use "in unison" in a sentence?

The phrase "in unison" typically describes actions performed simultaneously and harmoniously. For instance, "The dancers moved "in unison"", or "The crowd shouted "in unison"".

What phrases are similar to "in unison"?

Alternatives to "in unison" include "simultaneously", "together", or "in concert", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "singing in unison"?

Yes, it's correct. "Singing in unison" means singing the same notes at the same time. You could also say "singing "in harmony"" if the singers are singing different notes that complement each other.

What is the difference between "in unison" and "in agreement"?

"In unison" describes actions or sounds performed at the same time, while "in agreement" indicates a shared opinion or understanding. You can be "in agreement" about a plan and then act "in unison" to carry it out.