low voice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "low voice" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to describe the volume or tone of someone's speaking voice. Example: "She whispered in a low voice so as not to wake anyone up."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Man replied in low voice.

The New Yorker

I have a very low, low voice.

The New York Times

"£80," he replied in a low voice.

The Guardian

"She has a low voice, yeah".

The New York Times - Magazine

"Orchids, orchids," in a low voice.

The New Yorker

And then when the low voice comes, it's drama".

The Guardian - Music

"I think he's crazy," Reed said, in a low voice.

The New Yorker

"Mom, no scenes please," he said in his low voice.

The New York Times

Dave said in a low voice: "Here he comes.

The New York Times - Sports

Usually, he speaks in a deliberate, low voice.

The New York Times

He began asking questions, in a low voice.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "low voice" when you want to indicate that someone is speaking quietly, either to avoid being overheard or to create a sense of intimacy or secrecy.

Common error

Avoid using "low voice" when you intend to describe a "deep voice" or a "hoarse voice". "Low voice" refers primarily to volume, not vocal pitch or quality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "low voice" functions primarily as a modifier, typically describing the manner or quality of someone's speech. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically sound and widely used. Examples include phrases such as "spoke in a low voice" or "has a low voice".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "low voice" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase, as Ludwig AI confirms. It's primarily used to describe the quietness of someone's speech, often implying discretion, intimacy, or a desire to avoid being overheard. While it appears most commonly in news and media, it maintains a neutral register suitable for various contexts. When using "low voice", remember that it refers to volume and not vocal pitch or timbre. Alternatives such as "soft voice" or "hushed voice" can add subtle nuances depending on the intended meaning. With its consistent usage and clear meaning, "low voice" remains a reliable descriptor in both written and spoken English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

soft voice

Refers to the quietness of the voice, similar to "low voice" but focuses more on the gentle quality.

quiet voice

Emphasizes the reduced volume of the voice, closely related to "low voice".

subdued tone

Focuses on the emotional quality of the voice being restrained or muted.

hushed voice

Suggests a voice that is intentionally quiet, often to maintain secrecy or avoid detection.

murmured tone

Describes a voice that is barely audible, often spoken under one's breath.

understated voice

Implies a deliberate lack of emphasis or loudness in the voice.

deep voice

Highlights the vocal pitch being low, distinct from volume but often related.

raspy voice

Focuses on the quality of the voice being rough or hoarse.

gravelly voice

Describes a rough, low-pitched voice as if speaking through gravel.

gentle tone

Highlights the kindness and tenderness conveyed through the voice.

FAQs

How can I use "low voice" in a sentence?

You can use "low voice" to describe someone speaking quietly. For example, "She spoke in a "low voice" so the children wouldn't wake up".

What's the difference between "low voice" and "quiet voice"?

While both terms indicate reduced volume, ""low voice"" can also imply a deliberate attempt to soften or conceal the sound, while "quiet voice" primarily focuses on the lack of loudness.

What can I say instead of "low voice"?

You can use alternatives like "soft voice", "hushed voice", or "subdued tone" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a voice was low"?

While grammatically understandable, it's more common and natural to say "he/she spoke in a "low voice"" or "he/she had a "low voice"".