feeling of suspense

USAGE SUMMARY

"feeling of suspense" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used to describe the emotions associated with a situation or event where the outcome is uncertain or has yet to be determined. For example, you could say, "The feeling of suspense was palpable in the crowded theater as the lights dimmed and the movie began."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

"At the same time, I wanted a feeling of suspense at the end.

The New York Times

A feeling of suspense is unusual in combining excitement with a sense that time is passing slowly.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He changes his mind, though not before his wife tries to press Jeffrey to join them, which raises some interesting ethical questions, and occasions a certain morbid feeling of suspense.

The Guardian - Books

But by interrupting the dancers' actions with occasional sudden pauses, he created a feeling of suspense and implied that progress is not automatic in the material or the spiritual world.

The New York Times - Arts

The days leading up to the Google I/O conference this week are very much comparable to the lead up to the climax of a scary movie for developers - a feeling of suspense sits within our stomachs, as we hold our breath awaiting what Google will announce at the big event.

Huffington Post

Harmonically unexpected chords may lead to surprise or a feeling of suspense [25], [18].

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

Yet longeurs are few and usually overridden by the combined feelings of suspense and good will one feels for the people onstage.

The New York Times

Any dry or feelings of suspense and good will for the people onstage (2 00).

The New York Times

Any dry or awkward spots are easily overridden by your feelings of suspense and good will for the people onstage.

The New York Times

Any dry or awkward spots are easily overridden by your feelings of suspense and good will for the people onstage (2 00).

The New York Times

The intensity of our feelings of suspense seems to rely on two features of an event's outcome: (1) its uncertainty and (2) the significance of what is at stake.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "feeling of suspense" when you want to convey a sense of anticipation, uncertainty, and perhaps even anxiety about an impending event or outcome. It's effective in describing the emotional state of characters in a narrative or the atmosphere of a situation.

Common error

Avoid using "feeling of suspense" in overly dramatic or cliché contexts. Instead, focus on specific details and sensory descriptions that evoke suspense subtly and organically.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "feeling of suspense" functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It describes a specific emotional state or sensation, often in the context of storytelling or real-life situations. Ludwig AI supports this with multiple examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

16%

Wiki

16%

Less common in

Science

16%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "feeling of suspense" is a grammatically correct and commonly understood expression used to describe the emotional state of anticipation and uncertainty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively conveys the sensation of waiting for an unknown outcome, particularly in narratives or real-life scenarios where tension is high. While its usage is considered uncommon, it appears across a range of contexts, from news and media to encyclopedias and scientific publications. To enhance your writing, consider using "feeling of suspense" to create specific moods and atmospheres and avoid overusing it in cliché situations. Alternatives like "sense of anticipation" or "atmosphere of tension" can add variety and precision to your descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sense of anticipation

Focuses more on the expectation of something about to happen, rather than the anxiety associated with suspense.

atmosphere of tension

Highlights the strained and uneasy environment that creates suspense.

air of uncertainty

Emphasizes the lack of clarity and predictability, contributing to suspense.

heightened expectation

Stresses the elevated level of anticipation, often before a significant event.

thrill of uncertainty

Highlights the exhilarating aspect of not knowing what will happen.

palpable tension

Indicates that the tension is so strong it can almost be physically felt.

sense of foreboding

Suggests an anticipation of negative events, adding a darker tone.

feeling of unease

Focuses on the discomfort and anxiety that accompanies suspenseful situations.

state of apprehension

Emphasizes worry or fear about the future, which underlies suspense.

climate of insecurity

Highlights the lack of safety or stability, contributing to the feeling of suspense.

FAQs

How can I create a "feeling of suspense" in my writing?

You can create a "feeling of suspense" by using foreshadowing, withholding information, creating cliffhangers, and pacing your narrative effectively. Use vivid descriptions and sensory details to heighten the reader's anticipation.

What's a good alternative to "feeling of suspense"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "sense of anticipation", "atmosphere of tension", or "air of uncertainty".

Is it correct to say "feelings of suspense" instead of "feeling of suspense"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "feeling of suspense" emphasizes a single, overarching sensation, while "feelings of suspense" suggests a range of distinct emotions contributing to the suspense.

Can music evoke a "feeling of suspense"?

Yes, music can be a powerful tool for creating a "feeling of suspense". Composers often use dissonant chords, sudden changes in tempo, and quiet, unsettling melodies to build tension and anticipation in the listener.