a gasp arose

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a gasp arose" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sudden reaction of surprise or shock in a narrative or descriptive context. Example: "As the magician revealed the final trick, a gasp arose from the audience, filling the room with astonishment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A gasp arose from the carabinieri; a Swiss Guard vomited.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

Gasps arose from the crowd.

The New York Times - Magazine

A storm arose.

The New Yorker

Then a murmur arose.

Vice

Then, a problem arose.

Huffington Post

Then a backlash arose.

Huffington Post

Thus, we hypothesized that downregulation of D2Rs in response to cocaine, or other drug exposure that increase dopamine levels, could arise from a GASP-mediated postendocytic degradation of D2Rs.

Plosone

A gasp.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

We stifled a gasp.

The New York Times

Inhale — almost a gasp.

The New Yorker

One stifled a gasp.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a gasp arose" to vividly depict a sudden, collective reaction of surprise, shock, or awe in a narrative. It effectively conveys the immediate impact of an event on a group of people.

Common error

Avoid using "a gasp arose" too frequently in your writing, as it can become repetitive and lose its impact. Vary your descriptions of reactions to maintain reader engagement and avoid monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a gasp arose" functions as a narrative device used to describe a spontaneous, collective reaction, typically expressing surprise, shock, or awe. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in depicting immediate responses to unexpected events.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a gasp arose" is a grammatically correct and evocative way to describe a sudden, collective reaction, typically expressing surprise, shock, or awe. Ludwig's analysis of various sources indicates it is most frequently used in news and media, as well as in scientific contexts. While not overly formal, it effectively conveys the immediate impact of an event on a group, drawing the reader into the scene. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is both correct and usable in descriptive writing. Varying your descriptions of reactions can keep your writing fresh and engaging.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the crowd gasped audibly

Highlights the audible nature of the gasp from a crowd.

a sudden intake of breath

Focuses on the physical act of gasping.

a collective gasp was heard

Emphasizes that the gasp was audible and shared by multiple people.

a murmur went through the crowd

Suggests a softer, less abrupt reaction spreading among a group.

a reaction swept over the onlookers

Suggests a widespread response among those watching.

a stir rippled through the audience

Implies a gentle, wave-like movement of interest or surprise.

a wave of whispers arose

Implies a quiet, spreading reaction, focusing on speech.

a wave of shock passed through

Highlights the element of surprise or disbelief.

silence descended on the room

Indicates a sudden hush, often preceding or following a gasp.

a collective breath was held

Focuses on the suspension of breath due to surprise or anticipation.

FAQs

How can I use "a gasp arose" in a sentence?

Use "a gasp arose" to describe a sudden, collective intake of breath, usually expressing surprise, shock, or awe. For example: "As the magician revealed the impossible, "a gasp arose" from the audience".

What are some alternatives to "a gasp arose"?

Alternatives include "a collective gasp was heard", "a murmur went through the crowd", or "a stir rippled through the audience". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "a gasp arose" or "gasps arose"?

While both can be grammatically correct, "a gasp arose" typically refers to a single, collective reaction from a group. "Gasps arose" suggests multiple, individual gasps occurring simultaneously or in quick succession. The choice depends on whether the reaction is unified or individual.

What's the difference between "a gasp arose" and "a gasp was heard"?

"A gasp arose" implies that the gasp originated from within the group or setting, suggesting an internal reaction. "A gasp was heard" simply indicates that a gasp was audible, without necessarily specifying its origin. The meaning is subtle, and in some contexts, the phrases can be interchangeable.