keep silent

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep silent" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to mean refrain from speaking, or saying nothing. For example: "The guard ordered the prisoners to keep silent."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To keep silent?

The New York Times

They must not keep silent".

Independent

They decided to keep silent.

The New York Times

I cannot just keep silent.

The Guardian

It read, "Wise people keep silent".

The New Yorker

We will not keep silent for this".

The New York Times

"All I can do is keep silent.

Independent

"Those who know should keep silent".

The New York Times

"Please keep silent," the officer said sternly.

The New Yorker

I hold my breath and keep silent.

The Guardian - Travel

If players keep silent, the fighters will be falling.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "keep silent", consider the context to ensure it conveys the intended meaning. It can imply a deliberate choice to not speak, obedience, or secrecy. Make sure the surrounding words give the specific nuance you aim for.

Common error

Don't assume that someone who "keeps silent" is necessarily agreeing or accepting a situation. Silence can stem from fear, lack of knowledge, or strategic intent. Clarify intent rather than assuming agreement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep silent" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to express the action of refraining from speaking or making noise. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in various contexts, from commands to personal choices.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

25%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

8%

Huffington Post

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "keep silent" is a commonly used verb phrase that instructs or describes the act of refraining from speaking. As Ludwig AI indicates, it's grammatically correct and versatile, appearing in news articles, scientific papers, and general writing. While the phrase's register remains neutral, its specific meaning shifts depending on the context, ranging from explicit commands to strategic withholding of information. Alternatives like "remain quiet" or "refrain from speaking" can provide subtle nuances in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remain quiet

This alternative suggests a state of stillness and lack of audible sound, differing from "keep silent" by implying a more passive state.

stay silent

Similar to "remain quiet", but emphasizes a deliberate choice to not speak.

refrain from speaking

This phrase is more formal and emphasizes the act of consciously holding back from talking.

hold one's tongue

An idiomatic expression that means to avoid saying something that might be offensive or inappropriate.

bite your tongue

Similar to "hold one's tongue", this idiom suggests suppressing an urge to speak, often to prevent causing trouble.

not utter a word

Emphasizes the complete absence of speech.

mum's the word

Informal expression indicating a promise to keep something secret.

clam up

Informal term for suddenly becoming silent, often due to nervousness or reluctance.

zip it

A direct and informal way to tell someone to be quiet.

fall silent

Implies a transition from speaking to silence.

FAQs

How can I use "keep silent" in a sentence?

You can use "keep silent" to describe refraining from speaking, such as "The teacher told the students to keep silent during the exam", or to suggest concealing information, as in "He chose to keep silent about what he had witnessed".

What are some alternatives to "keep silent"?

Alternatives include "remain quiet", "stay silent", or "refrain from speaking". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired level of formality.

Is it always best to "keep silent" in difficult situations?

Not necessarily. While sometimes it's wise to "keep silent" to avoid conflict, other times it's important to speak up and voice your concerns or opinions. The right approach depends on the specific circumstances.

What does it mean when someone chooses to "keep silent"?

Choosing to "keep silent" can indicate various things, such as agreement, disagreement, fear, strategic maneuvering, or simply a lack of knowledge. Without further context, it can be difficult to determine the exact reason.