safe and sound

USAGE SUMMARY

'safe and sound' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who has had a lucky escape from a dangerous situation. For example: "John arrived home safe and sound after his plane was nearly involved in a mid-air collision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He's safe and sound.

The Guardian

"The president is safe and sound.

The New York Times

We're all here safe and sound.

Independent

"He will return home safe and sound".

Independent

"My son is safe and sound".

The New York Times - Sports

Amundsen delivered Bjaaland home safe and sound.

The Guardian - Books

To Keep It Safe and Sound.

Nature

No: there he is, safe and sound.

The Guardian - Film

"Baitullah Mehsud is alive, safe and sound".

The New York Times

Absolutely safe and sound, without a scratch".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

https://www.genomeweb.com/scan/keep-it-safe-and-sound (2016).

Nature

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "safe and sound" to reassure someone that a person or thing has survived a potentially dangerous situation without harm.

Common error

While "safe and sound" is perfectly acceptable, consider using simpler alternatives like "okay" or "alright" in very casual conversations to avoid sounding overly formal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "safe and sound" functions as an adjective phrase, typically used to describe the state of someone or something after a period of potential danger or uncertainty. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "safe and sound" is a common and correct way to describe someone or something that has emerged from a potentially dangerous situation unharmed. As Ludwig AI points out, it's widely used to provide reassurance. Predominantly found in news and media, it also appears in scientific, formal and business contexts. While generally neutral in tone, simpler alternatives may be suitable for very informal conversations. Remember, the phrase conveys not only safety but also the absence of harm. Whether you're reporting on a rescue mission or simply assuring a friend, "safe and sound" effectively communicates a positive outcome.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

safe and well

A slight variation, replacing "sound" with "well", but maintaining the same meaning.

unharmed and secure

Emphasizes the lack of injury and the presence of security.

in one piece

Similar to "without a scratch", emphasizing physical integrity.

out of harm's way

Highlights the removal from a dangerous situation.

without a scratch

Focuses on the absence of any physical injury.

in good hands

Suggests being under the care of someone trustworthy and capable.

protected and well

Highlights the state of being protected and in good health.

all right

A simpler way to express that someone is unharmed and well.

back home unharmed

Focuses on the safe return to a place of residence.

scatheless

A more formal and less common way of saying unharmed.

FAQs

How can I use "safe and sound" in a sentence?

You can use "safe and sound" to describe someone or something that has emerged from a dangerous situation unharmed. For example, "The lost hikers returned "safe and sound" after three days in the wilderness".

What are some alternatives to saying "safe and sound"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "unharmed and secure", "out of harm's way", or "in good hands".

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "safe and sound"?

While grammatically correct, "safe and sound" might sound somewhat formal in very casual settings. Consider your audience and choose a simpler phrase if appropriate.

What is the difference between "safe and sound" and simply saying "safe"?

"Safe" indicates the absence of danger, while "safe and sound" emphasizes that someone or something is not only out of danger but also unharmed and in good condition. The phrase "safe and sound" adds an extra layer of reassurance.