hushed voice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "hushed voice" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it in a sentence to indicate that someone is speaking softly without raising their voice, such as, "He spoke in a hushed voice, his words barely audible."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

He revealed this in a hushed voice.

The New York Times

I told him in a hushed voice".

The New York Times

Lifer glances around surreptitiously and speaks in a hushed voice.

The New Yorker

"You know it's illegal," she said in a hushed voice.

The New York Times

"There's nothing left," he says in a hushed voice.

The New York Times

"My wife called and said, in a hushed voice, 'Call 911.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

With a hushed voice-over and trembling digital video camera, "Demi-Tarif" (2003) follows three children who have been left on their own by an unseen mother.

The New York Times

Hushed voices, moody tones, waving cues.

The Guardian - Sport

The ladies at the table caucused in hushed voices.

The New Yorker

"They were talking in Spanish in hushed voices," he said.

The New York Times

Residents speak to one another in hushed voices.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hushed voice" to create a sense of intimacy, secrecy, or reverence in your writing. It's particularly effective in dialogues or descriptions where atmosphere is important.

Common error

Avoid using "hushed voice" to describe someone speaking in a crowded or noisy environment. It creates a contradiction and undermines the intended effect. Instead, focus on the speaker's effort to be heard or the listener's struggle to understand.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hushed voice" functions primarily as a descriptive element, modifying a verb to indicate the manner of speaking. Ludwig AI affirms its usability and the examples highlight its role in conveying atmosphere and intent.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Academia

14%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "hushed voice" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to describe a soft, quiet manner of speaking. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively conveys intimacy, secrecy, or reverence, fitting seamlessly into various contexts, especially in News & Media. While versatile, it's important to avoid using it in contradictory situations, such as describing someone speaking quietly in a loud place. Alternatives like "subdued tone" or "soft-spoken voice" can offer slightly different nuances if needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Quiet voice

A simple and direct way to describe a voice that is not loud.

Soft voice

Highlights the gentle quality of the voice.

Soft-spoken voice

Emphasizes the gentle quality of the voice.

Muted voice

Suggests a voice that is intentionally quieted or suppressed.

Subdued tone

Refers more to the manner of speaking rather than the voice itself.

Murmured voice

Implies speaking softly and indistinctly.

Low voice

A general term for a voice that is not loud.

Subtle voice

Highlights the unobtrusive nature of the voice.

Understated voice

Suggests a deliberate lack of emphasis in the voice.

Whispered tone

Implies speaking very softly, almost inaudibly.

FAQs

How can I use "hushed voice" in a sentence?

You can use "hushed voice" to describe the manner of speaking, such as, "She spoke in a "hushed voice" so as not to disturb the others."

What's a good alternative to "hushed voice"?

Alternatives include "subdued tone", "soft-spoken voice", or "quiet voice", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "hushed voice" formal or informal?

"Hushed voice" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the overall tone and setting of your writing.

What does it mean when someone speaks in a "hushed voice"?

Speaking in a "hushed voice" typically means someone is speaking softly to avoid being overheard, to create a sense of intimacy, or to show reverence in a quiet place. The context usually suggests the specific reason.