dull roar

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "dull roar" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a continuous, low, and monotonous sound, often in contexts related to nature or background noise. Example: "As we sat by the ocean, the dull roar of the waves created a calming atmosphere."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Our uncertain whispers grew into a dull roar.

The Washington Post

The initial quiet was soon superseded by a dull roar.

The New York Times

The dull roar of the Taconic diminished with each stroke.

The New York Times

During the conversation, she had heard noise in the background, a dull roar.

The New Yorker

The smell of the grease, the dull roar of the crowd surrounded us.

The New York Times

On one tape, a dull roar growing louder stumped Mr. Miller.

The New York Times

A red gravel torrent rocketed downward at two tons a second, in a low, dull roar.

The New York Times

Occasionally, a helicopter clattered overhead, and several times a day B-52s added their dull roar to the din.

The New Yorker

And to keep the pretentiousness at a dull roar, a live pianist will be on hand for drunken sing-alongs.

The New York Times

Wogan's real legacy continues in the dull roar of negativity that emanates from the UK media year after year.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

these power lines are traversing through towns causing a dull roaring, grinding sound.

University of California, Berkeley

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "dull roar" to effectively describe a continuous, low-intensity background noise, particularly when emphasizing its monotonous or unremarkable nature. For instance, "The "dull roar" of the city traffic faded as we entered the park".

Common error

Avoid using "dull roar" excessively in descriptive passages, as it can become repetitive and lose its impact. Instead, vary your descriptions with more specific and evocative terms to create a richer sensory experience for the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "dull roar" typically functions as a noun phrase, serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific type of sound, combining an adjective ("dull") with a noun ("roar") to modify its intensity and quality, supported by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Academia

3%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "dull roar" is a commonly used noun phrase that describes a continuous, low-intensity background sound. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent appearance in news and media sources. While versatile, it's important to avoid overuse and consider more specific descriptors for richer writing. Related phrases like ""muted rumble"" and ""soft murmur"" offer subtle variations in meaning. This analysis provides practical writing guidance, anticipating common linguistic questions, and offering insights into its function, purpose, register, and usage patterns, enhancing clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

muffled roar

Replaces "dull" with "muffled" maintaining same intensity of the roar.

muted rumble

Replaces "roar" with "rumble", suggesting a lower frequency and less intense sound.

distant rumble

Adds "distant" to emphasize the sound's origin and reduced intensity.

soft murmur

Substitutes "roar" with "murmur", indicating a quieter and more gentle background noise.

faint drone

Replaces "roar" with "drone", implying a continuous and monotonous sound, often mechanical.

low hum

Uses "hum" instead of "roar", signifying a steady and subtle background sound.

steady thrum

Changes "roar" to "thrum", suggesting a rhythmic and vibrating sound.

subdued clamor

Replaces "dull roar" with subdued clamor, suggesting a muted and controlled chaotic sound.

gentle whoosh

Substitutes "roar" with gentle whoosh, denoting a soft, rushing sound.

barely audible rumble

Uses "barely audible rumble" to emphasize a very faint and low-frequency sound.

FAQs

How can I use "dull roar" in a sentence?

You can use "dull roar" to describe a background noise that is constant and not very loud. For example: "The "dull roar" of the ocean waves lulled me to sleep".

What are some synonyms for "dull roar"?

Alternatives include "muted rumble", "soft murmur", or "faint drone", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "dull roar" a formal or informal expression?

"Dull roar" is generally considered a neutral expression suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, more descriptive alternatives might be preferred in highly formal writing.

What kind of sounds can "dull roar" describe?

"Dull roar" can describe a variety of continuous, low-intensity sounds, such as traffic noise, ocean waves, or the "hum of machinery".