a stern voice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a stern voice" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a tone of voice that is serious, strict, or authoritative, often in situations where someone is giving a warning or reprimand. Example: "When he spoke to the children, he used a stern voice to ensure they understood the seriousness of the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

When taping ended, a stern voice came crackling over the public address system.

The Guardian - Music

"It's best to stay mounted," Ed advised in a stern voice.

The New York Times - Travel

The woman approaches again and asks in a stern voice, "Miss, do you know how far to Dunquin?" She is Irish.

The New Yorker

"Gambling has become almost a genre in our society," said Justice Farrell, who lectures defendants with a stern voice and a no-nonsense tone.

The New York Times

Anyone who tries to bend the rules will be rebuked by Big Brother himself, a stern voice that blares out of speakers installed throughout the house.

The New York Times - Magazine

She was staying at a favorite chain, the Four Seasons, and the restaurant's maître d' "immediately approached the table and in a stern voice asked, 'Ms. Davis, is everything all right?' " she said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

32 human-written examples

But his car was equipped with LoJack, a stern-voice announcer reveals, so the spot has a happy ending.

The New York Times

"Come here, Olive," I said a second time, in a more stern voice.

The New Yorker

In a calm, stern voice, Ms. Diaz approached a group of police officers and told them that she needed to stand by her grandfather before his speech was done.

The New York Times

If you for sure hear them say something about you,and you are sitting close to them in a loud, stern voice, say their name and say something like, "Do you have a problem _________________?

WikiHow

The court officer said in a very stern voice, 'There is no dancing allowed in the court.' Finally, the judge got fed up with the landlord's lawyer talking about justice & said, 'You can forget this, name-of-justice stuff.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character's reaction to a stern voice, focus on the physical and emotional responses to amplify the scene's impact.

Common error

Avoid using "a stern voice" repeatedly in a single piece of writing, as it can become monotonous. Vary your descriptions by using related phrases like "a commanding voice" or "a serious tone" to keep the prose engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stern voice" functions primarily as a descriptive element, modifying a noun (voice) to indicate a particular quality or characteristic. The Ludwig AI examples show its use in describing how someone speaks to convey authority or disapproval.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

25%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a stern voice" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a tone of voice that conveys authority, seriousness, or disapproval. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media and instructional settings. While versatile, it's crucial to avoid overuse and consider related phrases to maintain engaging prose. As Ludwig AI shows, mastering the effective use of descriptive phrases like "a stern voice" enhances the clarity and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a severe tone

Emphasizes strictness and disapproval through the manner of speaking, focusing on the tone rather than the voice itself.

a firm tone

Suggests resolute control and lack of hesitation in the voice, suitable for conveying authority or conviction.

a commanding voice

Highlights the authoritative nature of the voice, implying control and the expectation of obedience.

a serious voice

Focuses on the gravity and importance conveyed by the voice, suitable for solemn occasions or warnings.

a strict voice

Implies adherence to rules and expectations, highlighting the disciplinarian aspect of the voice.

an authoritative voice

Stresses the power and credibility behind the voice, suggesting expertise and command.

a lecturing tone

Suggests a voice used to instruct or scold, often with an implied imbalance of knowledge or authority.

a disapproving tone

Focuses on the sentiment of disapproval expressed by the voice, indicating dissatisfaction or censure.

a no-nonsense tone

Highlights directness and lack of tolerance for foolishness, suggesting efficiency and a focus on important matters.

a grave voice

Conveys a sense of seriousness, solemnity, or impending doom, typically used in situations of significant weight.

FAQs

How can I effectively describe "a stern voice" in my writing?

To effectively describe "a stern voice", focus on the context and the impact it has on others. Consider using descriptive words like 'firm', 'unyielding', or 'authoritative'. You might also show the effect of the voice on the listener, such as causing them to stand up straighter or lower their gaze.

What are some alternative ways to say "a stern voice"?

You can use alternatives like "a firm tone", "a commanding voice", or "a serious voice" to describe a voice that conveys authority or disapproval.

Is "a stern voice" appropriate for all types of writing?

"A stern voice" is suitable for scenarios where authority, seriousness, or disapproval needs to be conveyed. It might not be fitting for lighthearted or comedic contexts, where a softer or more playful tone would be more appropriate.

What does it mean when someone uses "a stern voice"?

When someone uses "a stern voice", it generally means they are trying to communicate that they are serious, in control, or displeased. It is a way of asserting authority or conveying the importance of the matter at hand.