in rapt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in rapt" is not correct in standard written English; it is typically used as "in rapt attention" or "in rapturous delight." You can use it when describing someone who is completely absorbed or fascinated by something, often in a positive context.
Example: "The audience sat in rapt attention as the speaker shared his inspiring story."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He studied the painting in rapt silence.

The New Yorker

The reflective finale ended in rapt repose.

The New York Times - Arts

The whole block watched in rapt silence.

The New York Times

But I could see the judge listen in rapt attention.

The New York Times

Ms. Belle sat in rapt attention, occasionally jotting notes.

The New York Times

The testimony held Sergeant Lonetree in rapt attention.

The New York Times

"In 'Rapt' the handwriting terrifies because it establishes the authenticity of the ransom note," he said.

The New York Times

People sat in rapt pairs at a series of white tables with low benches.

The New Yorker

Indeed, Spring is such a destination that diners tend to sit in rapt silence.

The New York Times - Travel

She greeted Fuller with "lady-like dignity," and they spent the day in rapt discussion.

The New Yorker

As NASA focussed on the mission, the world stood in rapt attention.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always use "in rapt" with a noun that specifies the object of attention, such as "attention", "silence", or "delight". For example, "The audience listened "in rapt attention".".

Common error

Avoid using "in rapt" alone without specifying what someone is experiencing. Saying just "He stood "in rapt"" is grammatically incorrect and needs a complement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in rapt" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase that requires a complement. Ludwig AI indicates the expression is not correct in standard written English, and examples from Ludwig show it needs to be completed by a noun like attention, silence or delight.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, while the phrase "in rapt" appears frequently, Ludwig AI points out that it is grammatically incomplete on its own. It should be used with a noun such as attention, silence, or delight to properly convey a sense of intense focus or absorption. The usage is most commonly found in news and media sources. To avoid errors, remember to always specify what someone is experiencing when using this phrase. Alternatives include "completely absorbed", "utterly captivated", and "deeply engrossed".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in rapt attention

This is the most common and grammatically correct usage.

in rapt silence

Focuses on the quietness accompanying intense focus.

in rapturous delight

Emphasizes joyful absorption.

completely absorbed

Highlights the state of being fully engrossed.

utterly captivated

Stresses the charming quality of the experience

deeply engrossed

Indicates profound engagement.

wholly fascinated

Highlights the captivating nature of the stimulus.

spellbound

Suggests a magical or enchanting quality.

mesmerized

Implies a hypnotic or trance-like state.

enthralled

Conveys a sense of being completely charmed.

FAQs

How should I correctly use "in rapt" in a sentence?

The phrase "in rapt" is typically used with a noun like "attention", "silence", or "delight". For example, "The children listened "in rapt attention"" or "The crowd watched "in rapt silence"".

What does "in rapt attention" mean?

"In rapt attention" describes someone who is completely focused and fascinated by something, showing great interest and engagement.

What can I say instead of "in rapt attention"?

You can use alternatives like "completely absorbed", "utterly captivated", or "deeply engrossed" depending on the context.

Is it grammatically correct to say just "in rapt"?

No, it is not grammatically correct. "In rapt" needs to be followed by a noun specifying what the person is experiencing. For example, use "in rapt attention" or "in rapt silence" instead.