add to the noise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "add to the noise" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to contributing to confusion, distraction, or excessive information in a discussion or situation. Example: "While I appreciate your input, I feel that your comments may just add to the noise rather than clarify the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

Shiny bare-wood floors complete the look but add to the noise.

The New York Times

One thing that did not add to the noise level was the nearby picket line.

The New York Times

If not, it will do little but add to the noise.

The Economist

They were at it again on the final whistle, only the few who stood in disbelief at what had taken place failing to add to the noise.

The Guardian - Sport

Such moves – joined last week by comparable tax plans in Palo Alto and Mountain View – add to the noise around two connected questions.

The Guardian - Opinion

While there are still critics out there, often at prominent publications, who like to issue dogmatic rulings ("The novel exists to _____!") and to chastise writers, their nostalgic efforts merely add to the noise of culture.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

33 human-written examples

Assembly errors may add to the noises in determining transcript structures.

Genome Biology and Evolution

It just adds to the noise.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

People kept giggling over his latest pun and a crying toddler added to the noise.

The Economist

Also tendency of not following the traffic norms and poor maintenance adds to the noise generation.

Transportation Research Part C: Emerging Technologies

Furthermore, the 'running out of funds' rhetoric has often been used instrumentally to affect negotiations by parties involved, adding to the noise.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "add to the noise", ensure the context clearly establishes what the existing "noise" is. This provides a more impactful statement.

Common error

While acceptable, "add to the noise" can sound informal. In formal writing, consider alternatives like "complicate the issue" or "obscure the facts" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "add to the noise" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It typically describes an action that contributes to an existing state of confusion or disorder, as Ludwig AI points out. It suggests an increase in unwanted or irrelevant information or activity.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

32%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "add to the noise" is a common expression used to describe actions or information that contribute to an existing state of confusion, distraction, or unwanted complexity. As Ludwig AI highlights, the phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for neutral register contexts, although it may be perceived as less formal than alternatives like "complicate the issue". Its primary function is to express criticism of actions that make a situation more difficult to understand. The phrase is frequently found in news and media as well as scientific publications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increase the clutter

Focuses on the aspect of adding unnecessary items or information, creating disorder.

magnify the confusion

Emphasizes increasing a lack of clarity or understanding.

heighten the disorder

Highlights the worsening of an already disorganized or chaotic state.

intensify the chaos

Stresses the increase in unpredictable and disruptive elements.

amplify the discord

Indicates increasing disagreement or lack of harmony.

exacerbate the disruption

Focuses on making an existing disturbance or interruption worse.

inflate the commotion

Implies an increase in noisy activity or disturbance.

contribute to the uproar

Similar meaning, but emphasizes a public expression of outrage or disapproval.

swell the hubbub

Highlights increasing excited talk and activity.

augment the racket

Focuses on increasing a loud, unpleasant, or confusing noise.

FAQs

What does "add to the noise" mean?

The phrase "add to the noise" means to contribute to confusion, distraction, or unnecessary complexity, making it harder to understand or focus on something.

How can I use "add to the noise" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe actions or information that increase confusion or distraction, such as, "Introducing more data at this stage will only "increase the clutter" and not help us reach a decision".

What are some alternatives to "add to the noise"?

Alternatives include "magnify the confusion", "heighten the disorder", or "exacerbate the disruption" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "add to the noise"?

It is appropriate when you want to express that something is making a situation more confusing, distracting, or chaotic, and less clear or focused. Use it if the context demands a somewhat informal tone; otherwise, consider "complicate the issue" for a more formal option.