interval of silence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "interval of silence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in any context where there is a pause or break in sound or speech. For example: - After the singer finished her last note, there was a brief interval of silence before the audience erupted into applause. - The audio recording had a noticeable interval of silence between each track. - During the meditation session, we were instructed to focus on the intervals of silence between our breaths. - The courtroom fell into an uncomfortable interval of silence as the judge considered his verdict. - The peaceful forest was interrupted by the occasional interval of silence as the birds took a break from their chirping.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Next door, an interval of silence was followed by a second movement: power drilling.

The New Yorker

He said the former president believed he owed President Obama a "decent" interval of silence, not a "deep" interval.

The Washington Post

"One moment, please," said the Trenton operator, After a brief interval of silence, the New York operator went on to say, "That's in Princeton, Operator".

The New Yorker

On the other side...wind, an El train going by, chiming bells, an interval of silence played by a saxophone at rest".

The New Yorker

After an interval of silence, Jay said, "That's interesting, Gregory, but I only do this for one person at a time".

The New Yorker

After "Today I Am a Boy", he inserted an agonisingly long interval of silence, forcing the audience, as he said to me, "to fill it up with their imaginations - to create their own music.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

The intervals of silence grew progressively longer, the delays became maddening.

TechCrunch

In most cases, calls of two or more clusters were connected by short intervals of silence.

Plosone

The one-minute vocalization periods were interspersed by one-minute intervals of silence.

Plosone

Songs were separated by intervals of silence of at least 115 ms (see Defining Songs below) Syllable: the smallest acoustic unit of a vocalization.

Plosone

Thus, we proceeded to a sequential analysis in which two or more calls and short (<50 ms) intervals of silence were treated as "syllables" (Table 3).

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical writing, precisely define the length of the "interval of silence" when it is a critical parameter, such as in audio processing or behavioral experiments.

Common error

Avoid assuming that an "interval of silence" is devoid of significance. Silence can convey contemplation, discomfort, or unspoken agreement, adding depth to the communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "interval of silence" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence, denoting a specific duration or period characterized by the absence of sound. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its versatile usage across different contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

33%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "interval of silence" is a grammatically correct and frequently used noun phrase to describe a pause or break in auditory activity. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, highlighting its adaptability across contexts from News & Media to Science and Academia. When writing with "interval of silence", consider the emotional or dramatic impact of the pause and avoid assuming it is without meaning. Alternatives like "period of quiet" or "pause in sound" can offer subtle shifts in emphasis. Remember that, while suitable for general use, the phrase's precise nature makes it particularly fitting for professional or academic writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

period of quiet

Emphasizes the tranquility and lack of disturbance during the silent period.

pause in sound

Highlights the cessation or temporary absence of any audible noise.

break in the noise

Focuses on the interruption of an existing noisy environment.

lull in conversation

Refers specifically to a temporary cessation of speaking.

moment of stillness

Shifts the focus to the lack of movement and activity, including sound.

quiet spell

Suggests a short period characterized by calmness and absence of sound.

silent interlude

Emphasizes the temporary nature of the silence, like a break between louder events.

gap in speech

Highlights a pause specifically within a spoken discourse.

respite from noise

Indicates a welcome relief from an otherwise noisy environment.

break from sound

Focuses on the temporary ending of the hearing sensation.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "interval of silence" in a sentence?

The phrase "interval of silence" is best used to describe a deliberate or noticeable pause. For example, "After the heated debate, there was a tense "interval of silence" in the room".

What are some alternatives to "interval of silence"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "period of quiet", "pause in sound", or "break in the noise". Each alternative offers a slightly different nuance.

Is it better to say "interval of silence" or "period of silence"?

Both "interval of silence" and "period of silence" are grammatically correct. "Interval" suggests a measured or defined pause, while "period" is more general. The choice depends on the specific context.

What does "interval of silence" imply beyond the absence of sound?

An "interval of silence" can imply a variety of non-verbal cues, such as contemplation, tension, or respect. The interpretation depends heavily on the surrounding context and the individuals involved.