a stifled moan

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a stifled moan" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a suppressed or muffled sound of discomfort or pleasure, often in a context related to physical or emotional reactions. Example: "She let out a stifled moan as the pain shot through her leg."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

If after a few months' exposure to our David Lynch economy, in which housing markets spontaneously combust, coworkers mysteriously disappear and the stifled moans of dying 401(k) plans can be heard through the floorboards, you have the awful sensation that your body's stress response has taken on a self-replicating and ultimately self-defeating life of its own, congratulations.

The New York Times - Science

Iraq under Mr. Hussein had a stifled quality.

The New York Times

"It is not hysterics," replied Madge, in a stifled voice.

Stanford University

A minute later Alex hears a stifled cry.

The New York Times

A stifled chuckle escaped from the woman with the Evian.

The New Yorker

It has changed me from an active, creative person to a stifled, angry pessimist,' she says.

Independent

MENTION the ageing of the Japanese population, and you will provoke a stifled yawn.

The Economist

"I was just getting bumped around," Krauser said with a smile and a stifled giggle.

The New York Times - Sports

A baby with no feet let out a stifled cry, then died.

The New Yorker

"He's my boyfriend," said Elaine Jadacki, 42, turning away with a stifled sob.

The New York Times

"I love everybody now," he said, eliciting a stifled chortle from his daughter.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a stifled moan" to create a sense of tension or suppressed emotion in your writing. The phrase suggests inner turmoil or a deliberate attempt to conceal a reaction.

Common error

Avoid using "a stifled moan" excessively, especially in overly dramatic or cliché situations. Overusing it can weaken its impact and make your writing seem contrived. Consider using more subtle descriptions of emotion instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stifled moan" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, and examples show it describing suppressed sounds of emotion.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Academia

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a stifled moan" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a suppressed sound of emotion, as verified by Ludwig AI. Although relatively rare, it effectively conveys tension and concealed reactions. Its usage spans news, academic and science contexts. When writing, use this phrase to add depth to descriptions of characters experiencing inner turmoil or attempting to mask their feelings. Be mindful of overuse, which can diminish its impact. Related phrases include "a suppressed groan" and "a muffled whimper".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a muted moan

Synonymous, using 'muted' to describe reduced volume.

a stifled cry

Replaces "moan" with a more general term for a vocalization.

a suppressed groan

Emphasizes the effort to hold back a sound of pain or discomfort.

a hushed groan

Indicates a low, subdued sound of pain.

a barely audible moan

Emphasizes the faintness and difficulty in hearing the sound.

a muffled whimper

Focuses on a quiet, plaintive sound.

a soft groan

Focuses on the gentleness of the sound rather than the suppression.

a choked sob

Highlights the sound of restrained crying.

a repressed sound

Replaces specific vocalization with generic sound concept.

a suppressed sigh

Conveys a quiet expression of relief or resignation.

FAQs

How can I use "a stifled moan" in a sentence?

You can use "a stifled moan" to describe a suppressed sound of pain, pleasure, or any strong emotion. For example, "She let out "a stifled moan" as the massage therapist worked on her knotted muscles."

What are some alternatives to "a stifled moan"?

Alternatives include "a suppressed groan", "a muffled whimper", or "a choked sob", depending on the specific emotion you want to convey.

What does "stifled" mean in the context of "a stifled moan"?

In this context, "stifled" means suppressed or restrained. It indicates that the moan is being held back or prevented from being fully expressed.

Is "a stifled moan" formal or informal?

"A stifled moan" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the subject matter. It is generally suitable for descriptive writing in various genres.