no sermon

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "no sermon" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to indicate that there will be no lengthy or moralizing speech on a particular topic. Example: "I appreciate your advice, but please, no sermon." Alternative expressions include "no lecture" and "no preaching."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

No words, no prayer, no sermon gave me ease.

The New Yorker

Puritans banned prayers for the dead: at the grave, there would be no sermon.

The New Yorker

This requires no sermon, book or belief to legitimize it; it only needs submission.

The Guardian - Opinion

He offered no sermon on Sunday, but on Friday, after the violence, he urged protesters to leave the streets and for both sides "to pray for one another".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

"No sermons!

Unicef

But it's no sentimental sermon.

The Guardian

He preaches no sermons.

The New Yorker

He preaches no sermons, embraces no cleansing delusions.

The New York Times - Books

I heard no sermons criticizing the people responsible for the attacks in Riyadh, in which innocent civilians and children were killed.

The New York Times

I ain't out to preach no sermons, I'm just out to do my work, sing my songs and write them, and love people and share them.

The Guardian - Music

Furthermore no sermons can be delivered, and there can be no ritualistic ceremonies practised.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "no sermon" when you want to assure someone that you are not going to give them a lecture or unsolicited advice. It is suitable in both formal and informal settings to indicate a lack of moralizing.

Common error

Be aware that using "no sermon" implies a gentle avoidance of moralizing or lecturing. If you intend to outright refuse to discuss a topic, a more direct phrase like "I won't discuss this" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "no sermon" primarily functions as a noun phrase expressing the absence of a lecture or moralizing speech. As Ludwig AI suggests, it is used to reassure someone that a long, didactic discourse will not follow. Examples show its usage in diverse scenarios.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "no sermon" is a grammatically correct and relatively common way to express the absence of a lengthy or moralizing speech. Ludwig AI identifies it as suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it is more prevalent in news and media. It functions primarily to set expectations and create a relaxed atmosphere by assuring others that you won't be preaching or lecturing. Related phrases include "no lecture" and "no preaching". To avoid confusion, be mindful of the subtle difference between gently avoiding moralizing and outright refusal to discuss a topic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

no lecture

Focuses on the avoidance of a formal, instructional speech, rather than a religious one.

no preaching

Emphasizes the absence of moralizing or giving unsolicited advice.

no moralizing

Specifically avoids making moral judgments or giving moral advice.

no homily

Specifically avoids a religious discourse or sermon, often on a moral topic.

no diatribe

Avoids a forceful and bitter verbal attack against someone or something.

no harangue

Similar to diatribe, but can also imply a public speech.

no exhortation

Emphasizes the absence of strong encouragement or urging.

no discourse

Avoids a formal discussion or conversation about a topic.

no address

Focuses on the absence of a formal speech to an audience.

no lesson

Sidesteps conveying a moral or practical message.

FAQs

What does "no sermon" mean?

The phrase "no sermon" means that someone is not going to give a lengthy or moralizing speech, lecture, or homily on a particular topic. It's often used to reassure someone that you're not going to preach to them.

What can I say instead of "no sermon"?

You can use alternatives like "no lecture", "no preaching", or "no moralizing" depending on the context.

Is "no sermon" grammatically correct?

Yes, "no sermon" is grammatically correct and commonly used in both spoken and written English. Ludwig AI confirms this.

How formal is the phrase "no sermon"?

The phrase "no sermon" is relatively neutral in formality. It can be used in both informal conversations and more formal writing, although it is more common in less formal contexts than something like "I shall not deliver a homily".