quiet spell

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "quiet spell" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a period of calm or inactivity, often in relation to events or activities. Example: "After a busy summer, we finally experienced a quiet spell in the office, allowing us to catch up on our work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

20 human-written examples

FOLLOWING a quiet spell, Britain's war on drugs seems to be heating up.

The Economist

Ms. Winthrop's delicate movement language is lost here, the evening's quiet spell utterly broken.

The New York Times - Arts

"Time Stands Still" weaves a quiet spell of moment-to-moment truth, but the jolts of heightened drama spring at you with unnerving ferocity.

The New York Times

During the two-year quiet spell, our upper atmosphere, normally heated and inflated by the Sun's extreme ultraviolet radiation, cooled off and shrank.

The New York Times

Angelina Jolie in Maleficent Hollywood's most formidable leading lady is back after a relatively quiet spell, in a role playing on her scariness and seniority.

The Guardian

A breeze cast a quiet spell over the crowd gathered outdoors at the Hispanic Society of America on Audubon Terrace in Upper Manhattan.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

The occasional quiet spells came as a relief.

The New Yorker

Quiet spells are normal for the Sun, but researchers alive today had never seen anything like that two-year hibernation.

The New York Times

It happens amid tense urban skirmishes, and during quiet spells broken by unseen sniper fire; it happens in home bases, and on the perimeter of enemy-held positions.

The Guardian - Tech

I cannot plan a holiday during the quiet spells, nor can I send an e-card to the friend whose birthday I forgot.

The Guardian

When you're making your debut that's the last thing you need, but a lot of others had it too and as a result are also having quiet spells".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "quiet spell" to denote a temporary pause or lull in activity, especially when the previous period was characterized by intensity or busyness. For example, "After a frantic week, the office enjoyed a quiet spell."

Common error

Avoid using "quiet spell" to describe permanent or long-lasting states. This phrase suggests a temporary respite rather than a complete cessation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "quiet spell" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It denotes a period characterized by reduced activity or tranquility. Ludwig shows many examples in News & Media contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Sport

12%

Arts

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Formal & Business

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "quiet spell" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a temporary period of reduced activity or calm. As Ludwig highlights, it's frequently found in News & Media, sport, and arts contexts, indicating a neutral register. When using this phrase, ensure it accurately reflects a temporary state rather than a permanent condition. Alternatives such as "lull in activity" or "period of calm" can be used for similar meanings. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and grammatical correctness, making it a reliable phrase for describing temporary respites.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

lull in activity

Replaces "spell" with a more common synonym, focusing on reduced activity.

period of calm

Substitutes "quiet" with "calm", emphasizing tranquility over inactivity.

downtime

A single word replacement, implying a break or pause.

dormant period

Emphasizes inactivity and a state of rest.

hiatus

A more formal term for a temporary break or interruption.

respite

Focuses on the relief and rest provided by the break.

temporary pause

Highlights the temporary nature of the inactivity.

break in the action

Specifically refers to a pause within a series of events.

interlude

Suggests a brief period interrupting something else.

moment of stillness

Emphasizes the absence of movement or activity.

FAQs

How can I use "quiet spell" in a sentence?

You can use "quiet spell" to describe a temporary period of inactivity or calm, as in "After a busy season, the team experienced a "quiet spell", allowing them to recharge."

What are some alternatives to saying "quiet spell"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "lull in activity", "period of calm", or simply "downtime" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to use "quiet spell" to describe a permanent state?

No, "quiet spell" implies a temporary pause or break. For a permanent state, consider using phrases like "permanent hiatus" or "complete cessation".

What's the difference between "quiet spell" and "quiet moment"?

A "quiet moment" refers to a brief instance of peace or calm, while a "quiet spell" refers to a longer, more extended period of reduced activity or tranquility.