peculiar voice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "peculiar voice" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a voice that is unusual or distinctive in some way, often implying that it stands out from the norm. Example: "Her peculiar voice captivated the audience, making her performance unforgettable."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Books

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

He's given her a very interesting, very peculiar voice.

The Guardian

He said Shea was still in the hospital, but I left him my number, and a few days later the phone rang and a peculiar voice said: "This is Firefighter Kevin Shea.

The New York Times - Magazine

On March 16th, James O'Keefe III, the conservative activist, left a peculiar voice mail on the phone of Dana Geraghty, an employee at the Open Society Foundations, the nonprofit run by the billionaire George Soros.

The New Yorker

The audience responded with mild hysteria; the Queen tossed Lind a bouquet and recorded her "triumph" in a diary entry: "She has a most exquisite, powerful and really quite peculiar voice, so round, soft and flexible, and her acting is charming and touching and very natural".

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

In the happiest reading experiences, the "why" of a novel's being goes without saying: the writer has heard the peculiar music of a singular voice (Portnoy's, let's say) or has indulged the elaboration of an obsession (Humbert Humbert's) or has located the murderous flaw of a conventional wisdom ("Catch-22") or has confronted the quiddities of a heartbreaking dilemma ("Sophie's Choice").

The New York Times - Books

Milton's Peculiar Grace succeeds brilliantly in returning our full attention to the presence of that overweening, irascible, proudly singular voice we call Milton". insightful and often brilliant.

Cornell University

One boy apparently had an entire television show by heart, and would "replay" it all day, in a peculiar loud voice.

The New Yorker

The transitions are seamless because Mellman translates all the songs into his own peculiar musical voice, which might be described as John Cage cocktail lounge.

The New Yorker

To begin, there is the peculiar Bishop voice, which is often called faux naïf, but is probably closer to faux normal (the imitation isn't of innocence, but stability).

The New York Times - Books

Born and raised in southwestern Virginia, the original Carters -- two women on guitar and autoharp and, often, a peculiar male voice -- seemed both strange and beautiful in 1927, and still do.

The New York Times - Books

The only thing it won't do is tell you exactly what your wife meant when she said, 'Oh, you think so, do you?' in that peculiar kinda voice " Despite all these predictions, though, the arrival of the internet in the shape we know it today was never a matter of inevitability.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character, using "peculiar voice" can add depth and intrigue, suggesting unique traits or background.

Common error

Avoid using "peculiar" excessively in a single text; vary your vocabulary to keep the description engaging. Alternatives like "distinctive", "unique", or "uncommon" can offer similar connotations without sounding repetitive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "peculiar voice" functions primarily as a descriptive element, modifying a noun. As Ludwig AI suggests, it's used to highlight an unusual or distinct quality of someone's voice.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Books

20%

Arts

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "peculiar voice" is a grammatically sound and generally correct phrase used to describe a voice that stands out as unusual or unique. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is suitable for a wide range of contexts, particularly in describing character traits or distinctive features. Though not as frequent as other descriptive phrases, its usage across reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian confirms its place in standard English. Remember to use it judiciously, considering synonyms like "distinctive voice" or "unique vocal quality" to avoid repetition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinctive voice

Highlights the unique and recognizable nature of the voice.

characteristic voice

Focuses on voice as a distinctive feature.

singular voice

Emphasizes the unique and unmatched nature of the voice.

unique vocal quality

Emphasizes the special characteristics of the voice.

remarkable vocal delivery

Emphasizes the unforgettable aspects of speech.

particular vocal style

Highlights a specific manner of speaking or singing.

unusual tone

Focuses on the atypical quality of the sound.

uncommon tone of voice

Highlights the unusual nature and characteristics of the voice.

strange sounding voice

Draws attention to the odd or unfamiliar quality of the voice.

odd manner of speaking

Emphasizes the strange and atypical aspects of speech.

FAQs

What does "peculiar voice" mean?

The term "peculiar voice" describes a voice that is unusual, strange, or distinctive in some way. It suggests that the voice has qualities that set it apart from the norm.

What can I say instead of "peculiar voice"?

You can use alternatives like "distinctive voice", "unique vocal quality", or "unusual tone" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "peculiar voice" in formal writing?

Yes, "peculiar voice" is suitable for formal writing, especially when you aim to describe a character or subject in detail. However, ensure that the tone aligns with the overall style and purpose of your writing.

How to use "peculiar voice" in a sentence?

You can use "peculiar voice" in sentences like: "The character's "peculiar voice" added an element of mystery to his persona" or "Her "peculiar voice" made her instantly recognizable."