flutter of wings

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'flutter of wings' is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase may be used to create a vivid description of the motion of wings when an object, such as a bird, is taking off or when an insect is in flight. Example: The sky filled with the flutter of wings as the birds left their nests to search for food.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Once, hearing a flutter of wings, Tuca said: "Vultures.

The New York Times

With a flutter of wings, he was gone.

The New York Times

With a flutter of wings, the raven flew from his perch and landed on her left shoulder.

The New Yorker

Drawn back upstairs by the telltale flutter of wings, there he sat in exactly the same location on upper part of the sill.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"It seems to have had a double meaning, either the fluttering of wings, or the sky".

The New York Times

"I, too, believe that I heard such a fluttering of wings while I wrote that book.

The New Yorker

Moments later, a hundred doves were released from somewhere around the bagpipers' feet, with a sudden fluttering of wings.

The New Yorker

"And there was the constant fluttering of wings, and at night -- it was like listening to an opera out there".

The New York Times

The fluttering of wings behind bars evoked a sense of both freedom and restraint, a conflict that underscores flamenco, where dancers move with wild abandon while at the same time obeying the rigorous laws of the compás (rhythm).

The Telegraph

These books were a fluttering of wings for the aged domestic duckling, soon to swan out in eight novels written over the next 20 years and culminating in four masterpieces: "Innocence," "The Beginning of Spring," "Gate of Angels" and "The Blue Flower".

The New York Times - Books

You would like to tell her that the whispers of "Rolling in the deep," perfectly mimic the fluttering of wings and that your heart always jumps when the drums come in for the chorus.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "flutter of wings" to evoke a sense of delicate or rapid movement, often associated with birds or insects. It's suitable for both literal descriptions and metaphorical applications.

Common error

Avoid using "flapping of wings" interchangeably with "flutter of wings" if you intend to convey a gentle or rapid motion. "Flapping" suggests a more forceful, less graceful movement than "fluttering."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "flutter of wings" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It refers to the sound or the visual effect produced by wings moving quickly and lightly. The Ludwig AI confirms the validity of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

2.5%

Wiki

2.5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "flutter of wings" is a grammatically correct and usable English phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Although relatively rare in occurrence, it effectively evokes a sensory experience, typically referring to the light, rapid movement of wings. Its register is generally neutral, making it suitable for diverse contexts, particularly in News & Media and Scientific writing. While "flapping of wings" is a close synonym, understanding the subtle difference in connotation is crucial for precise usage. Ludwig's examples further illustrate the phrase's application in both literal and figurative senses.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wing flutter

Reverses the word order, emphasizing the action of fluttering rather than the wings themselves.

flapping of wings

Uses "flapping" instead of "flutter", suggesting a more forceful movement.

beating of wings

Replaces "flutter" with "beating", implying a stronger and more rhythmic motion.

whirring of wings

Focuses on the sound produced by rapidly moving wings.

rustling of wings

Emphasizes a softer, more delicate sound made by the wings.

sound of wings

General term referring to any sound associated with wings in motion.

wing movement

Broader term referring to the act of moving wings, without specifying the type of motion.

aerial vibration

Describes the vibration in the air caused by wings in flight.

flight motion

General term referring to any motion of flight.

wings in motion

Focuses on wings and the state of moving.

FAQs

How can I use "flutter of wings" in a sentence?

You can use "flutter of wings" to describe the light, rapid movement of wings, such as in the sentence, "The sudden "flutter of wings" startled the cat."

What is a good synonym for "flutter of wings"?

A good synonym for "flutter of wings" is "flapping of wings", although "flutter" suggests a lighter, more delicate motion.

Is it correct to say "a flutter of wings" or "the flutter of wings"?

Both "a flutter of wings" and "the flutter of wings" are grammatically correct. "A flutter of wings" is used when referring to a single instance, while "the flutter of wings" refers to a specific or known instance.

What does the phrase "flutter of wings" typically symbolize?

The phrase "flutter of wings" can symbolize freedom, fragility, or a sudden change, depending on the context.