complete quiet

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "complete quiet" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of total silence or absence of noise. Example: "The library was so peaceful, it was a complete quiet that allowed me to focus on my studies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

"You're never going to get complete quiet," Ms. Ebanks said.

The New York Times

"I must have complete quiet and privacy," he croons gently.

The New York Times

He has abandoned his demand for seven days of complete quiet before ceasefire talks can begin.

The Economist

Silence is important; some places require complete quiet from participants, while others are not so strict.

The New York Times - Travel

Mr. Sharon said he expected "complete quiet" during both the seven-day and subsequent six-week period.

The New York Times

At my request we went to a place where we could talk freely in almost complete quiet, a Midtown office-building cafeteria at night.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

By quiet, he means "complete, utter quiet, with not a shot fired or a stone thrown".Israel's prime minister also means that the quiet should be on the Palestinian side, only.

The Economist

"We will not start unless it will be completely quiet, complete cessation.

The New York Times

Participants also completed visual analogue scales relating to appetite throughout the day while remaining sedentary and completing quiet activities such as reading, watching television and typing.

British Journal of Nutrition

His new peace envoy may be expected to do the same, while nevertheless doggedly easing Israel's prime minister towards the negotiating table.Mr Sharon has dug himself in behind his demand for seven days of complete Palestinian quiet before a formal ceasefire can go into effect, and the machinery of security co-operation between the Israeli and Palestinian forces can be restored.

The Economist

Altogether it's a much more authentic example of an old-style Munich beer hall, complete with quiet courtyards and hunting trophies (Neuhauser Strasse 27; 9am–127m).

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "complete quiet" when you want to emphasize a total absence of noise, especially in situations where any sound would be disruptive or unwelcome.

Common error

Avoid using "complete quiet" when you actually mean a reduction in noise or a relatively quiet environment. "Complete quiet" implies total silence, while "relative quiet" suggests a comparison to a noisier state.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "complete quiet" functions as a noun phrase where "complete" modifies the noun "quiet". It indicates a state or condition, as confirmed by Ludwig and numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "complete quiet" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to describe a situation where there is a total absence of noise. According to Ludwig, it is widely used in News & Media, Wiki and Science contexts. While similar phrases like "total silence" and "utter stillness" exist, "complete quiet" often carries an additional connotation of tranquility. When using this phrase, it's important to ensure that you truly mean absolute silence, as opposed to a relative reduction in noise. Knowing this distinction ensures effective and accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

total silence

Emphasizes the absolute absence of any sound.

utter stillness

Highlights the lack of movement and sound, creating a sense of profound peace.

absolute quietness

Focuses on the perfect state of being without noise.

perfect tranquility

Stresses the peaceful and undisturbed nature of the silence.

profound hush

Suggests a deep and significant silence, often following a moment of activity or noise.

pin-drop silence

Illustrates how delicate the silence is, where even a pin dropping would be heard.

deathly silence

Indicates an eerie and unsettling absence of sound.

undisturbed peace

Concentrates on the lack of any disturbance or disruption.

soundless environment

Descriptive of an environment free from sound waves.

noiseless atmosphere

Emphasis on how the surrounding has absence of noises.

FAQs

How can I use "complete quiet" in a sentence?

You can use "complete quiet" to describe a place or situation where there is absolutely no sound. For example, "The library offered a "complete quiet" that was perfect for studying."

What's the difference between "complete quiet" and "total silence"?

"Complete quiet" and "total silence" are very similar, both describing an absence of sound. "Total silence" might emphasize the lack of any noise whatsoever, while "complete quiet" can also imply a sense of peace or tranquility in addition to the absence of sound.

What are some situations where "complete quiet" is desirable?

"Complete quiet" is often desired in environments such as libraries, meditation retreats, recording studios, and during examinations or performances where concentration is essential.

Is it possible to achieve "complete quiet" in a city environment?

Achieving "complete quiet" in a city environment is extremely difficult due to the constant presence of ambient noise. However, certain soundproofed spaces or isolated locations might offer a close approximation.