lapsed into silence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lapsed into silence" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone or a group stops speaking or becomes quiet, often after a period of conversation or noise. Example: "After the heated debate, the room lapsed into silence as everyone contemplated the implications of their words."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Pound lapsed into silence in 1960, leaving The Cantos unfinished.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The anti-war movement has all but lapsed into silence.

The Economist

Otherwise, for long periods, everyone lapsed into silence.

The Guardian - Tech

The two of them lapsed into silence, and the ambient sound did indeed become more intense.

The New Yorker

We lapsed into silence and watched an American sitcom in French.

The New Yorker

They lapsed into silence as a security official passed within earshot.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Reclusive and difficult to talk to, he occasionally lapsed into silences that lasted for days.

Los Angeles Times

We lapse into silence.

Independent

But there's something faintly disquieting about the way they stammer and keep lapsing into silence.

The Guardian - Music

"We lapse into silence, absorbing the still darkness of the hide..

The Guardian - Books

His friends and colleagues all speak of his unnerving habit of lapsing into silence, "of not returning the ball," as Eyre described this "conversational tic".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Pay attention to the context and emotional tone. "Lapsed into silence" can describe peaceful reflection, awkward tension, or even a sense of defeat.

Common error

Avoid using "lapsed into silence" if you want to convey a sudden or shocking silence. Opt for phrases like "fell silent instantly" or "abruptly stopped talking" to indicate a more immediate cessation of speech.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lapsed into silence" functions as a verb phrase, typically acting as the predicate of a sentence. It describes the action of gradually becoming quiet or ceasing to speak. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Science

4%

Reference

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lapsed into silence" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that describes a gradual transition into quietness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news and media, and academia. While versatile, it's essential to consider the specific context and desired tone when choosing this phrase, as it implies a more gradual shift into silence compared to sudden or abrupt quietness. Understanding these nuances ensures effective and accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fell silent

A more direct and common way of saying someone stopped talking.

became quiet

A simple and neutral way of describing the act of becoming silent.

stopped speaking

Focuses on the action of ceasing to speak.

went mute

Implies a more profound or perhaps temporary inability to speak.

lost their voice

Can imply both literal and figurative loss of the ability to speak.

clammed up

Suggests a deliberate refusal to speak, often due to nervousness or discomfort.

fell into a hush

Describes a group or environment becoming silent.

was hushed

Describes a state of silence imposed by someone or something.

speech ceased

A formal and somewhat detached way of stating that speaking stopped.

the talking stopped

A straightforward description of the end of a conversation or monologue.

FAQs

How can I use "lapsed into silence" in a sentence?

The phrase "lapsed into silence" describes a gradual transition into a state of quietness. For instance, "After the argument, they "lapsed into silence", each contemplating their next move".

What's a more formal alternative to "lapsed into silence"?

In formal writing, consider using "became silent" or "ceased speaking" as alternatives to "lapsed into silence". These options offer a more neutral and professional tone.

Is it correct to say "lapsed in silence" instead of "lapsed into silence"?

No, the correct phrase is "lapsed into silence". The preposition "into" is essential for conveying the meaning of transitioning into a state of quiet.

What does it mean when someone "lapses into silence" during a conversation?

When someone "lapses into silence", it suggests they've gradually stopped contributing to the conversation, often due to contemplation, discomfort, or disagreement. They might "fall silent" as they process their thoughts or emotions.