simmering indignation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "simmering indignation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a feeling of anger or resentment that is not openly expressed but is building up beneath the surface. Example: "As she listened to the unfair criticism, she felt a simmering indignation that she struggled to contain."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

These alpha male qualities ran head-on into his other side: his vague stage presence, reflecting unshakable introversion, and the simmering indignation of his vocal delivery.

The New York Times - Arts

It is a strict egalitarian code, founded on a distrust of big business and a simmering indignation at perceived injustices faced by working people in America.

The New York Times

And no more simmering indignation that years of outcry -- especially the protests that preceded the jets' arrival in 1977 -- failed to bar the Concorde from what residents feel is the Rockaways' already noisy skies.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

I read that report in the archives of Merthyr Library, which is where I also came across a set of correspondence that explained the root of that father's anger and which, in turn, left me simmering with sad indignation for weeks.

The Guardian

As she matured, however, Carson quietly simmered with attitude, indignation and, once she became more successful, a righteous ego.

The New York Times - Books

As the Duchess of Krakenthorp, a role often lent to legendary divas, the great soprano Kiri Te Kanawa simmered with righteous indignation, interpolating an aria from Puccini's "Edgar" for good measure.

The New York Times - Arts

Indignation was still simmering over the 1963 demolition of Penn Station, but no one knew quite what to do.

The New York Times

The book is essentially an account of Garson's many interviews, and one set piece follows another until, at the end of her investigations, she articulates their meaning and the indignation that's been simmering in her readers: When American companies began moving manufacturing jobs overseas in the 1970s, the idea was to make products more competitively for the American market.

The New Yorker

Eventually, all that simmering love-hatred leads to staggering betrayal and tabloid indignation.

The Guardian - Books

But dissent was simmering.

Vice

Simmering chicken soup.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "simmering indignation" to depict a controlled yet palpable anger that is not immediately obvious but can be sensed beneath the surface. This is useful when describing a character's internal state or a slowly escalating conflict.

Common error

Avoid using "simmering indignation" when describing overt, explosive anger. The term implies a restrained, underlying emotion rather than an outright display of fury.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "simmering indignation" functions as a noun phrase that describes a state of subdued but intense anger. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "simmering indignation" effectively describes a state of suppressed anger or resentment, making it a nuanced term for conveying complex emotions. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and usable in written English. While not overly common, its usage is primarily found in news and media contexts. When employing this phrase, aim to depict a controlled yet perceptible anger that is not immediately apparent but exists beneath the surface. Remember to avoid using it for overt or explosive displays of anger, as it specifically implies restraint and an underlying emotional state. Consider alternative phrases like "smoldering resentment" or "suppressed anger" for slight variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

muted indignation

Highlights the quiet and subtle expression of offense or injustice, often due to social constraints.

smoldering resentment

Focuses on the hidden and slowly building nature of the resentment, without necessarily implying anger.

suppressed anger

Highlights the act of keeping anger down, emphasizing control but potentially suggesting a stronger emotion.

latent outrage

Suggests that the feeling, while not currently active, is present and ready to surface with sufficient cause.

unspoken resentment

Emphasizes the lack of verbal expression, highlighting the internal nature of the feeling.

bottled-up frustration

Highlights the feeling of being confined and unable to express oneself, leading to frustration.

seething resentment

Implies a more intense and agitated state of inner anger, close to boiling point.

underlying bitterness

Focuses on the negative and resentful attitude, often stemming from past experiences.

restrained fury

Emphasizes the control exerted over a very strong feeling of anger, suggesting potential for eruption.

grumbling discontent

Suggests a low-level, continuous dissatisfaction expressed quietly or indirectly.

FAQs

How can I use "simmering indignation" in a sentence?

You can use "simmering indignation" to describe a feeling of suppressed anger or resentment that is not openly expressed but is building up. For example, "Despite his calm demeanor, a "simmering indignation" was evident in his eyes."

What is a good alternative to "simmering indignation"?

Alternatives to "simmering indignation" include "smoldering resentment", "suppressed anger", or "latent outrage" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "simmering indignation" and "outburst of anger"?

"Simmering indignation" refers to a controlled, underlying feeling of anger, while "outburst of anger" describes an uncontrolled, sudden expression of rage. The former is internal and building; the latter is external and immediate.

Is "simmering indignation" a formal or informal expression?

"Simmering indignation" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal expression, suitable for use in news articles, literature, and professional contexts. It's less common in everyday conversation.