an unguarded utterance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an unguarded utterance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a spontaneous or unfiltered statement made without careful consideration or restraint. Example: "During the meeting, he made an unguarded utterance that revealed more than he intended."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Aides acknowledged that the information would probably trickle out soon enough, through an unguarded utterance by Mr. Bush or an offhand comment by an official at one of the schools.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Roughly speaking, it is sufficient to point out that English law took the course of protecting the promisor against the consequences of unguarded utterances made without consideration, i.e. deliberation.

Harvard University

This was an unguarded moment".

Independent

Lee tapped it into an unguarded net.

The New York Times - Sports

Iain Valentine is an unguarded, hopeful soul.

The Guardian

The midfielder tapped into an unguarded net.

The Guardian - Sport

It could be that we let out an unguarded expletive.

Independent

Yeast are ubiquitous, and an unguarded tank of juice will most likely begin fermenting without intervention.

Cornell University

It must have been taken in an unguarded moment just before their annual formal portrait.

University of California, Berkeley

The front-runners could easily implode as a result of an unguarded moment relayed on YouTube.

The Economist

"I only photograph those I know and admire," he said, in an unguarded statement.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an unguarded utterance" when you want to emphasize that a statement was made without careful consideration, often revealing more than intended.

Common error

While "an unguarded utterance" is a valid phrase, avoid using it too frequently in highly formal or professional writing. Opt for more neutral terms like "candid remark" or "spontaneous comment" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an unguarded utterance" functions as a noun phrase, where "unguarded" modifies "utterance". It typically serves to describe the nature of a statement, emphasizing its lack of premeditation and potential for unintended revelation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Academia

22%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an unguarded utterance" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a spontaneous, unfiltered statement. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage. It's most commonly found in news and media, as well as academic contexts, suggesting a neutral to slightly formal register. While alternatives like "candid remark" or "spontaneous comment" exist, using "an unguarded utterance" effectively conveys the lack of premeditation behind a statement and its potential for unintended revelation. Be mindful of the context and audience when choosing this phrase to ensure it aligns with the desired tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a candid remark

Focuses on the honesty and frankness of the statement.

a spontaneous comment

Highlights the unplanned and impulsive nature of the statement.

an off-the-cuff statement

Emphasizes the informal and unprepared nature of the remark.

an unscripted remark

Indicates the statement was not rehearsed or planned.

a revealing admission

Focuses on the informative and potentially unintended disclosure.

a slip of the tongue

Highlights the accidental nature of the statement.

an unintentional disclosure

Emphasizes the lack of intention behind the revealed information.

an uncalculated comment

Points out the lack of planning or strategy behind the statement.

a thoughtless expression

Highlights the lack of consideration or care in the statement.

an imprudent statement

Focuses on the lack of wisdom or caution in the statement.

FAQs

How can I use "an unguarded utterance" in a sentence?

You can use "an unguarded utterance" to describe a situation where someone says something without thinking, often revealing more than they intended. For example: "During the interview, he made "an unguarded utterance" about the company's financial struggles."

What are some alternatives to "an unguarded utterance"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "a candid remark", "a spontaneous comment", or "a revealing admission".

Is "an unguarded utterance" formal or informal?

"An unguarded utterance" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's more common in news and media or academic writing. Consider your audience and the tone you want to convey when deciding whether to use this phrase.

What's the difference between "an unguarded utterance" and "a calculated statement"?

"An unguarded utterance" implies spontaneity and lack of careful thought, while "a calculated statement" suggests a deliberate and strategic communication. They are essentially opposites in meaning.