low tone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "low tone" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a sound that is deep or quiet, often in the context of voice or music. Example: "She spoke in a low tone, barely above a whisper, as if sharing a secret."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

"The transfer has been made," he said in a low tone.

The New York Times

Those men on their own will try to set the low tone for this debate.

The Guardian - Opinion

And she dips to a chilling low tone on the word "silenzio".

The New York Times - Arts

Beside him was a young woman, apparently his wife; she appeared to be chiding him in a low tone.

The New Yorker

She managed to note, in a low tone, "We were making a low-budget movie and didn't expect to be here -- it's exciting".

The New York Times - Arts

But what struck me about the Republican speeches on the floor of the House more than their low tone was their ideological purity.

The New Yorker

"Vous êtes belle," he murmurs in a low tone, shuffling his papers in her apartment, trying to be businesslike, "terriblement belle......

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

While issuing a throaty rumble from a low-tone hot-rod muffler, the Fairlane's 260-cubic-inch V-8 nevertheless sounded strained on gentle inclines.

The New York Times

Spears's vocal range spans from the high-tone of G3 to the low-tone of Eb5.

Wikipedia

Spears's vocal range spans from the low-tone of A♭3 to the high-tone of E♭5.

Wikipedia

Pink's vocal range spans from the high-tone of B♭4 to the low-tone of F3.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character's emotional state in writing, use "low tone" to subtly convey feelings such as sadness, seriousness, or secrecy without explicitly stating them. This adds depth to the narrative and engages the reader's imagination.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a "low tone" necessarily indicates disinterest or apathy. It can also signify thoughtfulness, respect, or an attempt to de-escalate a situation. Always consider the broader context to accurately interpret the intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "low tone" primarily functions as an adjectival modifier followed by a noun, describing the quality of a sound or voice. It is often used adverbially within prepositional phrases like 'in a low tone', modifying verbs to indicate the manner of speaking, as seen in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

25%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "low tone" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that describes a sound or voice characterized by depth and quietness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively conveys a sense of seriousness, intimacy, or sadness. While versatile across various registers, it particularly frequents News & Media and Science contexts. Alternative phrases such as "soft voice" or "deep voice" can provide nuanced variations. When using "low tone", consider its potential to create atmosphere and emotional depth, but avoid misinterpreting it as a sign of disinterest. Overall, the phrase remains a reliable tool for descriptive writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

soft voice

Focuses on the quietness of the voice rather than the pitch.

deep voice

Emphasizes the depth or resonance of the voice.

subdued tone

Highlights a less intense or energetic quality in the manner of expression.

quiet voice

Indicates a low volume of speech.

gentle tone

Suggests a mild and kind manner of speaking.

murmured tone

Implies speaking softly and indistinctly.

hushed tone

Indicates a very quiet or secretive manner of speaking.

grave tone

Emphasizes the seriousness and solemnity of the voice.

somber tone

Highlights the melancholy or seriousness in the manner of speaking.

moderate tone

Focuses on the balanced and controlled nature of the expression.

FAQs

How can I use the phrase "low tone" effectively in a sentence?

Use "low tone" to describe a voice or sound that is deep and quiet, often conveying a sense of seriousness, intimacy, or sadness. For example, "She spoke in a "low tone", sharing a secret."

What are some alternative phrases for "low tone"?

Instead of "low tone", you could use phrases like "soft voice", "deep voice", or "subdued tone" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "in a low tone"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to use the prepositional phrase "in a low tone". It functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by describing the manner in which something is said or expressed.

What is the difference between "low tone" and "quiet voice"?

While both phrases describe a reduced volume, "low tone" also implies a depth or richness of sound, whereas "quiet voice" primarily emphasizes the lack of loudness.