sitting still

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sitting still" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a situation when a person or animal is not moving or shifting position. For example, "The child remained sitting still on the chair, waiting for her parents to return."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Learn to sit comfortably, breathing normally and sitting still.

WikiHow

Michael had trouble sitting still.

The New Yorker

I won't be sitting still".

BBC

Verizon is not sitting still.

The New York Times

She's sitting still and quiet.

Independent

(Or of sitting still).

The New York Times - Books

Soundmatters has not been sitting still, though.

The New York Times

He is not good at sitting still.

The New York Times - Sports

McDonald's is not sitting still either.

The Economist

The opposition is not sitting still.

The New York Times

She couldn't bear sitting still.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sitting still" to describe a temporary state of inactivity, whether voluntary or imposed. For instance, use it when describing someone trying to meditate or a child being asked to stay quiet.

Common error

Avoid using "sitting still" when describing a permanent or inherent lack of motion. Phrases like "permanently immobilized" or "at rest" are more appropriate for objects that do not move by nature.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sitting still" functions as a gerund phrase, often used as a predicate adjective to describe a state of being or a quality. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in a variety of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sitting still" is a very common and grammatically sound gerund phrase used to describe a state of inactivity or lack of movement. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread usage across various contexts, including News & Media and Academia. While generally neutral in register, it's important to consider the context to ensure appropriateness. Avoid using it when describing inherently immobile objects. Alternatives like "remaining motionless" or "staying put" can offer subtle variations in meaning. Remember to use "sitting still" to temporary states and situations where someone is consciously refraining from movement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remaining motionless

Focuses on the lack of movement, emphasizing a complete absence of motion.

motionless

Describes the absence of motion, often in a dramatic or descriptive context.

staying put

Implies remaining in a specific location without relocating.

not moving

A simple and direct way to express the absence of movement.

holding still

Suggests a conscious effort to maintain a static position.

keeping still

Similar to holding still, but can also imply a general state of calmness.

being stationary

A more formal way of saying not moving, often used in technical contexts.

at rest

Suggests a state of peace and inactivity.

inactive

Focuses on the lack of activity rather than physical movement.

quiescent

A more literary term for being still or inactive.

FAQs

How can I use "sitting still" in a sentence?

You can use "sitting still" to describe a situation where someone is refraining from movement. For instance, "The doctor asked the patient to try "sitting still" during the examination".

What are some alternatives to "sitting still"?

Alternatives include "remaining motionless", "staying put", or "not moving", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "sitting still" and "standing still"?

"Sitting still" implies inactivity in a seated position, while "standing still" implies inactivity while standing. The choice depends on the physical posture being described.

Is it ever incorrect to use the phrase "sitting still"?

While generally correct, it would be inappropriate to use "sitting still" when describing an object that is inherently immobile. In those cases, phrases like "at rest" are more suitable.