resigned voice

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "resigned voice" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a tone of voice that conveys acceptance or surrender, often in response to a difficult situation. Example: "She spoke in a resigned voice, acknowledging that there was nothing more she could do to change the outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

Her stout but resigned voice lingers over lyrics that are almost gothically depressing, often about ended relationships or the constitutional impossibility of having one at all.

The New York Times

Throughout his question-and-answer session, Obama talked in a soft, almost resigned voice, giving the impression that he'd rather do almost anything else than direct Americans soldiers to return to Baghdad and northern Iraq.

The New Yorker

Sheik Ahmed Abu Risha, the brother of the assassinated sheik, described the killers as "criminals" and, speaking in a low, resigned voice in a telephone interview, said they were "trying to send a message to everybody that whoever tries to help the humanity and to bring life again to Iraqis and also to improve the image of Islam will get killed".

The New York Times

So our Yes is uttered in a somewhat reluctant, resigned voice.

Genome Medicine

"Good night, Bobby," Sallie said in a resigned voice, and we hung up.

The New Yorker

"So many people disappeared," she said in a resigned voice the other day.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Or, as his date says in resigned voice-over, "Right then I knew the boat had sailed, and I just got my things and went home".

The New York Times

Then, as he described a fire two decades ago at his old summer house, in Plainfield, Massachusetts, he slumped back in his chair, resigned, his voice lowering into a growly whisper.

The New Yorker

Germany's Comroad said its KPMG auditor had resigned after voicing doubts about some of the Teutonic firm's business relationships, signalling the suspension of its shares and shredding its market value.

Forbes

He reportedly resigned after voicing opposition to Scaramucci's appointment. .

Huffington Post

I recently and reluctantly resigned because voices unwilling to toe the party line are no longer welcome.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "resigned voice" to subtly convey a character's acceptance of an unpleasant situation, adding depth to their emotional state without explicitly stating their feelings. It's particularly effective when paired with contrasting body language to highlight internal conflict.

Common error

Avoid using "resigned voice" when the character is actively fighting or protesting. "Resigned voice" implies acceptance, not necessarily defeat. If there's still fight in them, use phrases that reflect defiance or reluctance instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "resigned voice" functions as a descriptive element, modifying a noun (usually related to speech or communication) to indicate the speaker's emotional state or attitude. As indicated by Ludwig, it's a valid and commonly used phrase.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

8%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "resigned voice" effectively communicates acceptance, often tinged with weariness or disappointment. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and frequently employed, particularly in News & Media. When choosing related phrases, consider the specific emotional shade you want to convey, whether it's defeat, reluctance, or mere compliance. Remember that while "resigned voice" is neutral, its impact lies in its subtle implication of acceptance, even when resistance might have been preferred.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

defeated tone

Focuses more on the feeling of defeat rather than mere resignation.

tone of acceptance

Directly describes the acceptance without necessarily implying previous resistance.

submissive voice

Suggests a willingness to yield to authority, which may not always be present in a resigned voice.

acquiescent tone

Emphasizes agreement or compliance, potentially more active than resignation.

tone of surrender

Emphasizes the act of giving up, a stronger connotation than simple resignation.

reluctant tone

Highlights the unwillingness behind the acceptance, whereas "resigned voice" focuses on the acceptance itself.

dispirited voice

Focuses on the lack of enthusiasm or hope, adding a layer of emotional dejection.

tone of compliance

Highlights the act of conforming, which may be more active than resignation implies.

unenthusiastic voice

Highlights the lack of excitement or interest, more directly than "resigned voice".

weary tone

Focuses on tiredness or exhaustion, suggesting a long period of struggle before resignation.

FAQs

How can I use "resigned voice" in a sentence?

You can use "resigned voice" to describe someone who speaks with a tone indicating acceptance of something unpleasant or inevitable. Example: "She answered in a "resigned voice", 'I suppose that's the only way'.

What does "resigned voice" suggest about a character's feelings?

A "resigned voice" suggests the speaker has accepted a situation they may not be happy about, indicating feelings of helplessness, disappointment, or weariness. It implies a lack of resistance or protest.

Are there situations where "defeated tone" is more appropriate than "resigned voice"?

Yes, use "defeated tone" when the speaker is overwhelmed by loss or failure and lacks any remaining hope or strength. "Resigned voice" implies acceptance, whereas "defeated tone" suggests complete surrender to despair.

What is the difference between "resigned voice" and "reluctant tone"?

"Resigned voice" suggests acceptance of something unavoidable, even if unwanted. "Reluctant tone" indicates unwillingness to do something, but it does not necessarily mean acceptance of the situation.