a dark voice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a dark voice" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a voice that has a deep, ominous, or foreboding quality, often in a literary or dramatic context. Example: "As the storm raged outside, a dark voice echoed through the hall, sending chills down their spines."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

He sang, in a dark voice, "What barbarians!" The Muscovites replied, "O brothers... we shall swear a solemn oath in blood!" A bearded, hawk-nosed man in a suit — the Met's Napoleonic general manager, Joseph Volpe — entered the auditorium, positioned himself in front of the stage, and gazed fiercely at the proceedings.

The New Yorker

The soothing track starts off with Blige singing with a dark voice, "So you think you know how to love a woman/ But I think it's still some things you need to know".

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

The French are pouring in — they even love our wine!" Then a darker voice surfaces: "Woke up in a cold sweat.

The New York Times

Speaking in a menacing, devilish growl, Carlin gives voice to a dark part of us that eagerly, and at times almost giddily, consumes the wall-to-wall media coverage that certain kinds of mass-death events generate.

The New Yorker

Ms. Gubanova has an ample, dark voice with a slightly hard-edged quality that takes some adjusting to.

The New York Times - Arts

Blige has a robust, dark voice, and she moves around melodies in a pleasingly unruly way.

The New Yorker

He makes a stealthy and impulsive Giovanni and sings in a muscular, dark voice.

The New York Times - Arts

In a pair of recent interviews and an exchange of e-mail messages, Mr. Geithner defended his record, saying that from very early on, he was "a consistently dark voice about the potential risks ahead, and a principal source of initiatives designed to make the system stronger" before the markets started to collapse.

The New York Times

Two highlights were the mezzos: Atala Schoeck, in several smaller roles, had a lovely, clear sound, and as Penelope, Kristina Hammarström showed a firm, dark voice, its timbre matching the warm wood of her character's regal figure.

The New York Times - Arts

From the beige depths of a heavily shuttered house beside a hillock from which I could spy the Eiffel Tower, a deep, dark voice spoke: "Qu'est-ce que vous cherchez?" I suppose, had I been the ghost of Jane Jacobs I would have experienced this as reassurance: the eyes, even if unseen themselves, remained on the street.

The Guardian - Books

"What's the matter with them now?" Aaron frowned, and said in a low, dark voice, "They're sharp dressers".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a dark voice" to create a sense of mystery, foreboding, or intensity in your writing. It's particularly effective in fiction and dramatic contexts when characterizing individuals or settings.

Common error

Avoid using "a dark voice" as a lazy shorthand for evil or villainy. Instead, use it sparingly and ensure it contributes meaningfully to the character's overall portrayal and the scene's atmosphere. The phrase should enhance, not replace, more nuanced character development.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a dark voice" functions primarily as a descriptive element, modifying the noun 'voice'. It adds qualitative information, characterizing the voice with attributes of depth and darkness. Ludwig AI indicates that this phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a dark voice" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe a voice with deep, often ominous qualities. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. While not extremely common, the phrase appears across various contexts, most frequently in News & Media. Alternative phrases include "a deep voice" or "a menacing voice", depending on the desired nuance. When using this phrase, prioritize impactful characterization and atmospheric enhancement rather than relying on clichés.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a deep voice

Focuses on the depth of the voice rather than its ominous quality.

a somber voice

Emphasizes the melancholy or serious tone of the voice.

a menacing voice

Highlights the threatening or intimidating quality of the voice.

a husky voice

Describes a voice that is low and slightly rough.

a grave voice

Indicates a serious or solemn tone in the voice.

a low voice

Simply refers to the pitch of the voice.

a sinister voice

Suggests an evil or malevolent quality in the voice.

a throaty voice

Highlights the quality of the voice coming from the throat, often deep.

a rich voice

Emphasizes the fullness and pleasant quality of the voice.

a booming voice

Describes a loud and resonant voice.

FAQs

How can I use "a dark voice" in a sentence?

You can use "a dark voice" to describe a character's speech, like, "He spoke in "a dark voice", hinting at secrets untold".

What are some alternatives to "a dark voice"?

Alternatives include "a deep voice", "a menacing voice", or "a sinister voice", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "a dark voice" in writing?

It is most appropriate when creating a sense of suspense, mystery, or to indicate a character with hidden depths or malevolent intentions. Consider the overall tone of your piece and ensure it fits.

Is "a dark voice" always associated with negative characters?

Not necessarily. While often used to portray villains or antagonists, "a dark voice" can also describe characters with complexity or troubled pasts, adding depth and intrigue to their persona.