monotonous hum

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "monotonous hum" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a continuous, dull sound that lacks variation, often creating a sense of boredom or irritation. Example: "As I sat in the waiting room, the monotonous hum of the fluorescent lights made it difficult to concentrate."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Exquisitely bored by the monotonous hum and click of sewing machines and knitting needles in a snowbound fishing village, Senta annihilates herself for love of the cursed hero of The Flying Dutchman.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Another couple, the terrifically deadpan Abby Harris and Jeremy Holmes, supplied a soundtrack in the form of monotonous hums, Darth Vader-like breathing and the occasional clap.

The New York Times - Arts

The mammoth buyer and consolidator of hundreds of independent local radio stations -- along with its smaller competitors, Infinity Broadcasting and Cumulus Media -- is body-snatching America's sonic soul, turning Whitman's vivacious democratic cacophony into a monotonous numbing hum.

The New York Times - Magazine

That ghosts roam the audit booths surprises none of Wallace's characters; they even sit through lectures on the etymology of the word "boredom" given by spirits whose voices slip into and out of audibility against the Examination Center's monotonous background hum.

The New York Times - Books

Like the Silver Apples and Kraftwerk, Suicide was the forerunner for all the techno-rock played in today's trendy clubs and restaurants – that monotonous, endless drone without any guitars, humming so loudly it makes conversation obsolete.

Vice

Was it monotonous?

The New York Times - Arts

It's not monotonous.

The New York Times

It will become monotonous.

The New Yorker

The monotonous palette?

The Guardian - Arts

A monotonous love life?

The Guardian - Film

Messy, middling and monotonous?

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing environments, "monotonous hum" is effective at creating ambiance.

Common error

Avoid excessive use of "monotonous hum" in a single passage. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound repetitive and detract from the overall impact. Use varied sensory details to paint a richer picture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "monotonous hum" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "monotonous" modifies the noun "hum". It describes a sound (hum) characterized by a lack of variation or interest (monotonous). Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "monotonous hum" is a grammatically correct adjective-noun combination used to describe a repetitive, uninteresting sound. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it effectively conveys boredom or irritation. While its frequency is rare, its usage is appropriate across various contexts, predominantly in news and media. Related phrases include "dull drone" and "tedious drone", offering subtle variations in meaning. When using this phrase, it's best to avoid overuse and ensure it accurately depicts the intended sound and its effect. To prevent redundancy, incorporate varied sensory details in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

monotonous drone

Replaces "hum" with drone. It reinforces the idea of a continuous, unchanging sound.

dull drone

Focuses on the unchanging and uninteresting aspect of the sound, similar to monotonous but with an emphasis on the lack of variation.

tedious drone

Highlights the boring and wearisome quality of the sound, adding a layer of emotional reaction to the monotony.

unrelenting drone

Highlights the persistent and unceasing nature of the sound. It changes the emphasis from monotony to the sound's duration.

tiresome drone

Similar to "tedious drone", it focuses on the quality of making one feel weary or bored.

unvarying buzz

Emphasizes the lack of change in the buzzing sound, akin to hum but specifically a buzzing type of sound.

repetitive murmur

Suggests a low, indistinct sound that repeats continuously, shifting the focus from mechanical to a more natural or background sound.

constant whir

Shifts the sound descriptor to a whirring noise that is continuously present. Changes hum for a whir.

steady thrum

Replaces "hum" with "thrum", suggesting a rhythmic vibration or pulsing sound that is constant.

ceaseless murmur

Highlights the uninterrupted and ongoing nature of the murmur, indicating a sound that never stops.

FAQs

How can I use "monotonous hum" in a sentence?

You can use "monotonous hum" to describe a continuous, dull sound that lacks variation. For example: "The office was filled with the monotonous hum of computers." Or: "The monotonous hum of the engine lulled me to sleep."

What are some alternatives to "monotonous hum"?

You can use alternatives like "dull drone", "tedious drone", or "unvarying buzz" depending on the specific sound and context you want to describe.

What kind of sound does "monotonous hum" describe?

The phrase "monotonous hum" describes a sound that is continuous, unchanging, and often perceived as dull or boring due to its lack of variation. It suggests a low, steady, and often irritating background noise.

Is "monotonous hum" suitable for formal writing?

"Monotonous hum" is suitable for various writing styles, including formal writing, as long as it accurately describes the sound in question. Its appropriateness depends more on the context than the formality of the writing.