Left unsaid

USAGE SUMMARY

"Left unsaid" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to indicate something that has not been expressed or mentioned. Example: "There were many feelings left unsaid during the conversation." Alternative expressions include "not mentioned" and "unspoken."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Left unsaid is that they have lapses.

The New York Times - Sports

Left unsaid was that he learned his composure from Hawaii.

The New York Times

Left unsaid is the reality in the other dugout.

The New York Times - Sports

Left unsaid were all the endorsements, celebrity pals and entertainment opportunities also there for the taking.

The New York Times - Sports

Left unsaid was whether, on his own, Mr Brown could win a fourth.

The Economist

Left unsaid, of course, is that talent should not be confused with results.

The New York Times - Sports

Left unsaid was what Klinsmann believes soccer isn't about―namely, dealing with the past.

The New Yorker

Left unsaid is what's obvious: When you must write a negative review, make it memorable.

The New York Times

Left unsaid: Straight sold 3 million copies.

Forbes

Left unsaid: The W201 could ratchet down the sector's price point.

Forbes

Left unsaid was anything about Enron's role in the supposed California energy crisis.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "left unsaid" to subtly hint at unspoken tensions, implications, or assumptions within a narrative or argument. This can add depth and intrigue without being overly explicit.

Common error

Avoid using "left unsaid" when you simply mean something was omitted due to space or relevance. "Left unsaid" implies a deliberate omission with potential meaning or implication, not just an accidental oversight.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "left unsaid" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun (often 'things', 'details', or 'much') to describe what was not explicitly expressed. Ludwig AI shows this is often used to highlight implications and unspoken information.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

1%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "left unsaid" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, particularly within news and media contexts, as highlighted by Ludwig. It serves to emphasize the importance of what is not explicitly stated, pointing towards unspoken assumptions or implications. While alternatives like "unspoken" and "implied" exist, "left unsaid" carries a nuanced implication of deliberate omission. It's crucial to avoid substituting it for simple omissions, reserving its use for situations where the unsaid carries significant weight. Overall, Ludwig AI provides useful examples of its effective application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unspoken

This term directly describes something not verbally expressed, maintaining a high degree of semantic similarity.

understood without saying

Clearly illustrates that a mutual understanding has been established without the need for explicit discussion.

implied

Focuses on the indirect communication, suggesting something is understood without being explicitly stated.

tacitly understood

Highlights the mutual understanding of something without needing to articulate it.

taken for granted

Indicates something assumed to be true or understood without explicit confirmation.

not explicitly stated

Emphasizes the lack of a direct declaration, preserving the core meaning of omission.

unarticulated

This term indicates something that has not been expressed clearly or put into words.

lurking beneath the surface

Metaphorically suggests hidden or unacknowledged issues influencing the situation.

underlying assumption

Points to a foundational belief or idea that is influencing events, though not openly discussed.

subtext

Refers to the implicit meaning behind the literal words, often requiring interpretation.

FAQs

How can I use "left unsaid" in a sentence?

You can use "left unsaid" to imply unspoken thoughts, feelings, or information. For example, "Much was "left unsaid" during the argument, leading to further misunderstandings."

What is a good alternative to "left unsaid"?

Alternatives include "unspoken", "implied", or "tacitly understood", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to leave things "left unsaid"?

Sometimes, yes. Tact and diplomacy often require leaving some things "left unsaid" to avoid conflict or hurt feelings. However, important matters should be addressed directly.

What does it mean when something is "understood without saying" instead of being "left unsaid"?

"Understood without saying" suggests mutual comprehension without needing words, while "left unsaid" implies a deliberate withholding of expression, often carrying potential tension or hidden meaning. They are similar, but "understood without saying" focuses more on shared knowledge.