making any noise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "making any noise" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the act of producing sound or noise, often in contexts where silence is expected or desired. Example: "The cat was so stealthy that it managed to sneak up on the bird without making any noise."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

She wasn't making any noise.

The New Yorker

"They were not making any noise, or doing anything antisocial.

The Guardian

As well as all that, Scarlet wasn't making any noise.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He tapped his sneakers against the floor without making any noise.

The New Yorker

I opened my mouth, but, eyeing the scrub, thought better of making any noise at all.

The Guardian - Travel

"That's when I said, 'Something's wrong.' His eyes were closed and he wasn't making any noise".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

"Can you tell us if Gregg is making any noises," requests Craig McEwan.

The Guardian - Sport

Turn it off to prevent it from making any noises.

WikiHow

Try eating it with your mouth closed, without making any weird facial expressions or making any noises.

WikiHow

If you are inside a room, lock the door and hide the best you can without making any noises.

WikiHow

"She didn't make any noise".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When aiming for stealth or secrecy, use the phrase "making any noise" to emphasize the importance of remaining silent. For example, "The spies moved through the building, careful to avoid making any noise."

Common error

Avoid using "making any noise" when the situation actually calls for sound or communication. For example, if someone is unresponsive, you wouldn't say they are 'not making any noise' unless the lack of sound is the primary concern; instead, you'd say they are unresponsive or silent.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "making any noise" functions primarily as a verbal phrase. It describes the action of producing sound and is often used to emphasize the absence or avoidance of sound. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "making any noise" is a commonly used and grammatically sound verbal phrase, suitable for various contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively describes the action of producing or avoiding sound. Predominantly found in News & Media, it serves to highlight the presence or absence of auditory disturbances or communication. Related phrases include "producing any sound" and "creating any sound", offering similar meanings. When using "making any noise", consider the context to ensure it accurately conveys the intended message. Its neutral register makes it versatile, while understanding common errors ensures precise application. The frequency of "making any noise" is classified as common.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

making any sound whatsoever

Emphasizes the complete absence of sound, adding intensity to the silence.

making a sound

General term for producing any kind of sound.

producing any sound

Focuses on the action of sound production, rather than the general concept of noise.

creating any sound

Emphasizes the act of generating a sound, highlighting the creation aspect.

emitting any sound

Describes the release or discharge of sound, often used in technical contexts.

generating any noise

Similar to creating, but specifically refers to unwanted or disruptive sounds.

uttering any sound

Focuses on vocal sounds or speech, typically from a person or animal.

making a peep

An informal idiom meaning to make even a small sound, often implying secrecy.

raising any sound

Slightly more formal way to express producing sound, implies a degree of effort.

giving out any sound

Implies the sound is being released or transmitted, not necessarily intentionally.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "making any noise" for variety?

You can use alternatives like "producing any sound", "creating any sound", or "emitting any sound depending on the specific context.

In what situations is it important to avoid "making any noise"?

Avoiding "making any noise" is crucial in situations requiring stealth, such as sneaking around, observing wildlife, or undergoing medical procedures where silence is required.

Is "making any noise" formal or informal?

The phrase "making any noise" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives may exist depending on the specific situation.

What does it mean when someone is described as "not making any noise"?

When someone is described as "not making any noise", it typically means they are being quiet, silent, or are not causing any disturbance through sound. It can also imply that they are not expressing any dissent or disagreement.