a still day

USAGE SUMMARY

"a still day" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a day when there is little to no wind, and there is a peaceful quiet. For example: "The trees rustled gently in the breeze, and the sun glinted across the lake on a still day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

On a still day, everything seems benign.

The Guardian - Sport

The sculptures are even more beautiful, their creator says, on a still day when their reflection is undistorted.

The New York Times

And the spot is hemmed in by the terrace on one side and a hill on the other so that, especially on a still day, the fumes linger.

The Guardian

It was a still day, at last, but suddenly in the branches high above us there was an abrupt lurch, more earthquake than gale.

The New York Times

When one speaks with the wind, the sound wave is refracted back down to the ground, and one's voice is able to "carry" farther than on a still day.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Assuming correctly that the speed of light is effectively infinite compared with the speed of sound, Gassendi measured the time difference between spotting the flash of a gun and hearing its report over a long distance on a still day.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

AKRON, Ohio — On a still Friday, hot, humid and ideally suited to having a go at a soft Firestone Country Club, many players did.

The New York Times - Sports

Overton and Pernice, who tied the course record with a 63 on a soft, still day at Congressional Country Club, are at nine-under 131.

The New York Times - Sports

Pat Perez shot a 61 to take the lead in the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic on a warm, still day in the desert resort area of La Quinta, Calif.

The New York Times

Nick Clegg said: "There is a still a day to go, there are still lots of people who haven't decided how to vote.

The Guardian

Texas artist Eileen Pestorius used watercolors to capture the setting on a still, spring day.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a still day" to evoke a sense of peace and tranquility in your writing. This phrase is particularly effective in descriptive passages where you want to create a calm and serene atmosphere.

Common error

Avoid using "a still day" in scenes that require action or high energy. The phrase suggests a lack of movement, so it's better suited for quieter, more reflective moments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a still day" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase modifying the noun "day". It provides information about the atmospheric conditions of the day, indicating a lack of wind or movement.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

17%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

17%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a still day" is a grammatically correct and relatively uncommon phrase used to describe a day characterized by a lack of wind and a sense of calmness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for setting a peaceful scene or evoking tranquility. Predominantly found in News & Media, Encyclopedias, and Wiki contexts, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse applications. Alternatives such as "a calm day" or "a windless day" offer similar meanings, allowing for varied expression. While versatile, avoid using it in contexts requiring action or high energy. This phrase is best suited for descriptive writing aimed at creating a serene atmosphere.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a calm day

Replaces "still" with "calm", emphasizing the peacefulness of the day.

a windless day

Directly describes the absence of wind, a key characteristic of a still day.

a tranquil day

Emphasizes the peaceful and quiet nature of the day.

a serene day

Highlights the undisturbed and calm atmosphere of the day.

a peaceful day

Focuses on the absence of disturbance or conflict.

a quiet day

Stresses the lack of noise and activity.

a motionless day

Highlights the lack of movement, specifically of wind.

a placid day

Implies a smooth and undisturbed condition, similar to still water.

a restful day

Suggests a day conducive to relaxation and rest.

a stagnant day

This can emphasize the lack of activity. Note that this alternative can also have a negative connotation, implying something is not progressing.

FAQs

What does "a still day" mean?

The phrase "a still day" refers to a day characterized by a lack of wind or noticeable air movement, creating a calm and peaceful atmosphere.

What can I say instead of "a still day"?

You can use alternatives like "a calm day", "a windless day", or "a tranquil day" depending on the context.

Is "a still day" the same as "a quiet day"?

While both phrases imply a sense of calmness, "a still day" specifically refers to the absence of wind, while "a quiet day" suggests an absence of noise or activity.

How can I use "a still day" in a sentence?

You might say, "The lake reflected the clear sky perfectly on "a still day", creating a mirror-like image" or "It was "a still day", perfect for sailing because the water was smooth and undisturbed".