a mere utterance

USAGE SUMMARY

"a mere utterance" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to emphasize that something said is insignificant or lacks depth. Example: "His apology was nothing more than a mere utterance, lacking sincerity." Alternative expressions include "a simple statement" and "just words."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

A mere utterance of the word and most layman get suspicious.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

There is no phrase which by its mere utterance will cure a bereaved person.

Huffington Post

A lie has no power whatsoever by its mere utterance.

Huffington Post

The mere utterance of these words can make a small business owner ecstatic or apoplectic -- all depending on their experience with this increasingly popular administrative help.

Huffington Post

" Even the mere utterance of the word HIV/AIDS was a taboo before.

Human Resources for Health

The mere utterance of that phrase is enough to send a shiver down the spines of "hardcore" console players.

The Guardian - Tech

The problem is that many Americans are so enraptured with the American Dream that it has become a virtually jingoist shorthand for national superiority, almost as if its mere utterance validates our performance and way of life as unique.

Huffington Post

No mere utterance, then or now, could do justice to the soaring heights of language Mr Lincoln reached that day.

The Guardian

Sorry to inform you, but your naked conclusory accusations do not prove themselves by their mere utterance.

The New York Times

In an 1878 essay, Edison (or his ghostwriter) proclaimed portentously that his invention would "annihilate time and space, and bottle up for posterity the mere utterance of man".

The New Yorker

At the height of his bardic powers, Allen Ginsberg could terrify the authorities with the mere utterance of the syllable "om" as he led street throngs of citizens protesting the Vietnam War.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a mere utterance" to underscore the insignificance or superficiality of something said, particularly when contrasting it with expected actions or results. It's most impactful when used to highlight a disconnect between words and deeds.

Common error

Avoid relying on "a mere utterance" too frequently in formal contexts. While grammatically sound, overuse can make your writing sound dismissive or condescending. Opt for more nuanced language that acknowledges the statement's content while still conveying its limitations or flaws.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a mere utterance" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as a subject complement or object. It typically describes a statement or expression, emphasizing its insignificance or lack of substance. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Reference

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a mere utterance" is a grammatically sound phrase used to downplay the significance or impact of a statement. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, although its frequency is uncommon. It's found primarily in news and media, science, and wiki contexts. When using it, consider its potential to sound dismissive and ensure it aligns with the tone and purpose of your writing. Alternatives such as "a simple statement" or "just words" may be more appropriate depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a simple statement

Focuses on the simplicity of the statement, rather than its potential insignificance.

just words

Emphasizes the lack of action or substance behind the utterance.

a trivial remark

Highlights the unimportance or lack of consequence of the utterance.

an empty phrase

Suggests the utterance lacks meaning or sincerity.

a passing comment

Focuses on the fleeting nature of the utterance.

a brief expression

Highlights the brevity and lack of detail in the utterance.

a superficial statement

Implies the utterance lacks depth or consideration.

a throwaway line

Suggests the utterance was casual and not seriously intended.

a casual remark

Focuses on the informality and lack of intention behind the utterance.

a light comment

Indicates the utterance was intended to be humorous or inconsequential.

FAQs

How can I use "a mere utterance" in a sentence?

You can use "a mere utterance" to downplay the significance of something that has been said. For example, "The politician's promise was "a mere utterance", with no concrete plans to back it up."

What are some alternatives to "a mere utterance"?

Alternatives include "a simple statement", "just words", or "an empty phrase", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a mere utterance" formal or informal?

"A mere utterance" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, but its impact is stronger when used in situations where expectations are high, and the utterance falls short.

What does "a mere utterance" emphasize?

"A mere utterance" emphasizes the lack of substance or action behind the statement. It suggests that the words spoken are insufficient or meaningless in the given context.