codes of silence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "codes of silence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to an unspoken agreement among individuals to not disclose information, often in contexts involving secrecy or misconduct. Example: "In the organization, there were codes of silence that prevented employees from reporting unethical behavior."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Once-legendary codes of silence were proved to be breakable.

The New York Times

As always in debates around immigration, there were dog whistles, codes of silence, and invisible hierarchies.

The New Yorker

Little by little, you create a new reader who understands the codes of silence, of nostalgia for Cuba.

The New York Times

But bound by local codes of silence and fearful of the politically connected crime gangs in the region, no one will talk.

The New York Times

Though couched in a thoughtful set of anecdotes, Adichie had sharp words for her mostly young and vocal audience about the "codes of silence" that govern American life.

The Guardian - Books

The codes of silence on which Mob bosses depended were not so different from the ones that allowed the depredations of Hollywood — then and now — to go unchallenged.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

The code of silence?

The New York Times - Books

Who killed the code of silence?

The New York Times - Arts

The code of silence remains intact.

The Guardian - Business

Eventually, the code of silence will snap.

The New York Times - Sports

"A code of silence develops in the boardroom," he argues.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing sensitive topics like corporate misconduct or political scandals, use "codes of silence" to convey an atmosphere of secrecy and complicity.

Common error

Avoid using "codes of silence" when simply referring to personal privacy or confidentiality agreements. The phrase implies a broader, often systemic, pattern of suppressing information.

Linguistic Context

"Codes of silence" functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a set of unspoken rules that prevent information from being revealed. Ludwig AI also confirms this.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "codes of silence" effectively conveys a situation where information is deliberately suppressed. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct and frequently used. Predominantly found in News & Media, it describes scenarios involving secrecy and potential misconduct. While alternative phrases like "culture of silence" or "omertà" exist, "codes of silence" maintains a neutral register suitable for objective reporting. The phrase's consistent usage and clear meaning contribute to its effectiveness in describing complex social and ethical dynamics.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

omertà

This term, borrowed from Italian, refers specifically to the Mafia's code of silence, emphasizing loyalty and refusal to cooperate with authorities.

culture of silence

Focuses on the broader societal or organizational environment that discourages open communication and dissent.

agreement of secrecy

Highlights the explicit or implicit understanding to keep information confidential.

conspiracy of silence

Suggests a deliberate and coordinated effort to suppress information or cover up wrongdoing.

vow of silence

Implies a formal or solemn promise to remain silent about certain matters.

pact of silence

Emphasizes the mutual agreement among parties to maintain silence.

policy of non-disclosure

Focuses on a formal or informal rule that restricts the sharing of information.

unspoken rule of secrecy

Highlights the implicit and often unacknowledged expectation of confidentiality.

confidentiality protocols

Refers to established procedures and guidelines for maintaining confidentiality.

veil of secrecy

Suggests that information is hidden or obscured by deliberate means.

FAQs

What does the phrase "codes of silence" refer to?

The phrase "codes of silence" refers to an unspoken agreement among individuals to not disclose information, often related to unethical or illegal activities. It implies a systemic pattern of suppressing information within a group or organization.

Are there alternative phrases to "codes of silence"?

Yes, depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "culture of silence", "agreement of secrecy", or "omertà".

How is "codes of silence" different from a simple confidentiality agreement?

"Codes of silence" suggests a broader, often enforced, pattern of non-disclosure to protect a group or organization, while a confidentiality agreement is a formal, individual commitment to keep specific information private.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "codes of silence"?

It's appropriate to use "codes of silence" when discussing situations where there's a deliberate suppression of information, often related to misconduct, corruption, or abuse of power. Think of scenarios involving organized crime, institutional cover-ups, or systemic failures in accountability.