echo

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "echo" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, such as when referring to the repetition of sound or the reiteration of an idea or sentiment. Example: "Her words seemed to echo in my mind long after the conversation had ended."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These eddies of trouble, the revival of secondary disputes and the mixture of economic policy with diplomatic grievances and popular rhetoric all echo the atmosphere of the early 1930s.

The Guardian - Opinion

But if that primitive resonance is not achieved, storytellers are failing to fulfil what is perhaps their primary function, which is therapeutic – to act as an echo chamber to our deepest fears and desires, and thus help to integrate them into a healthy personality.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Then, with an uncanny echo of the 1979 FA Cup final, when Manchester United had recovered in similar fashion to draw level with Arsenal at 2-2, the coolest head on the field swung the match back on to its original course.

The Guardian - Sport

What is even more exciting is the agreement, but also the echo to do things differently; to stop piloting and go to scale with what works (and there is already a lot that works); and to treat agriculture, including smallholder agriculture, as a business.

The Guardian

Via his YouTube alias, sunsetcorp, there was his version – or "echo jam", as Lopatin labels it – of Chris de Burgh's ghastly 80s hit Lady in Red, which used various synth and looping techniques to transform it into a work of such disarming, heart-rending beauty that it prompted comments ranging from "the single greatest experience I have ever had" to "the sole reason YouTube should exist".

The Guardian - Music

Ruth Fox, director of the Hansard Society, told the Guardian last week that turnout looked set to echo that of 2010, despite hopes that close contests in many constituencies might have encouraged more votes.

The Guardian

But beauty lies in the eye of the beholder, and my appraisal of the Longlands Lane turbine on a warm spring evening is not likely to echo that of locals who once knew and loved the empty sky it now fills.

The Guardian

The six-part series, which is expected to echo the dark humour of Davis's previous series, such as BBC3's Nighty Night and Sky Atlantic's Hunderby, takes up the story after eight years of high ratings and awards when the audience drifts away and tensions break out within the production team.

The Guardian

Bryant's comments echo those of actor David Morrissey, who last year said the arts were being closed off to many young people by a culture of elitism.

The Guardian

Ruth Fox, director of the Hansard Society, said turnout looks set to echo 2010, despite the closeness of many constituency contests which might have encouraged more votes.

The Guardian

Its evil echo reverberates in this new episode: Sansa refuses to eat, while the wicked King Joffrey is ascendant.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "echo", consider the specific nuance you want to convey: is it a literal sound reflection, a metaphorical mirroring of ideas, or a simple repetition?

Common error

Avoid using "echo" when you simply mean 'repeat' without any implication of reflection or resonance. Choose a more direct synonym if the reflective quality isn't intended.

Linguistic Context

Echo functions primarily as a verb or a noun. As a verb, it describes the act of repeating or reflecting something, whether a sound or an idea. As a noun, it denotes the reflected sound itself or a metaphorical representation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "echo" is a versatile term that can function as both a noun and a verb, indicating either a literal reflection of sound or a metaphorical repetition of ideas. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in a variety of contexts, and is primarily found in News & Media. To enhance clarity, consider the specific nuance you wish to convey when employing "echo", as alternatives such as "resonate" or "reverberate" may be more precise depending on the situation. Avoid using "echo" when you simply mean repeat. By understanding its multiple dimensions, you can harness "echo" to enrich your writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reverberate

This suggests a strong, prolonged sound reflection.

resonate

This implies a deeper emotional or intellectual connection and impact.

reflect

This suggests a mirroring or representation of something.

mirror

This refers to reflecting something closely.

imitate

This means to copy or mimic someone or something.

repeat

This simply means to say or do something again.

reproduce

This indicates making a copy or representation.

reiterate

This means to say something again, often for emphasis.

rebound

This implies a return or reaction.

simulate

This means to create a likeness or model of something.

FAQs

How to use "echo" in a sentence?

The word "echo" can be used as a verb (to repeat or reflect something) or as a noun (a reflected sound). For example, 'His speech seemed to "echo" past grievances,' or 'The "echo" in the canyon was impressive'.

What can I say instead of "echo"?

You can use alternatives like "resonate", "reverberate", or "reflect" depending on the context.

What's the difference between "echo" and "repeat"?

"Echo" implies a reflection or reverberation, either literal (a sound) or metaphorical (an idea). "Repeat" simply means to say or do something again, without the reflective aspect.

Which is correct, "echo" or "mirror" in describing ideas?

Both ""echo"" and "mirror" can be used to describe ideas. "Echo" suggests a repetition or faint resemblance, while "mirror" implies a more direct and complete reflection.