solemn ceremony

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "solemn ceremony" is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used to describe a formal and serious event or ritual that is typically observed with reverence or respect. For example, "The inauguration of the new president was a solemn ceremony, filled with patriotic speeches and traditional rituals." "The funeral service was a solemn ceremony, as mourners paid their final respects to the beloved community leader."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It was a solemn ceremony.

The New Yorker

("He likened the solemn ceremony to a cattle call," she recalled).

The New York Times - Style

President Bush's solemn ceremony at Ground Zero certainly didn't lack emotional symbolism.

The Guardian

At a solemn ceremony in Singapore's Cathay Theatre, Bose took over the leadership of the Indian National Army.

The New Yorker

Seven weeks ago, the first anniversary of the World Trade Center and Pentagon attacks was commemorated with appropriately solemn ceremony.

The New Yorker

After the solemn ceremony, he met relatives of some of the 54 Britons who have died in Iraq.

The New York Times

Sixty years ago, Europe was a mere Bilderbaby, conceived in a solemn ceremony on Prince Bernhard of the Netherlands' mattress.

The Guardian

As did the numbing choreography of royal life: solemn ceremony attended the king's every rising, Mass, meal and evening retirement.

The New York Times - Books

But what should have been a solemn ceremony in Mexico City's basilica turned into a media circus.

The New York Times

When the scrolls are removed for religious services, the congregation stands, and a solemn ceremony accompanies the opening and closing of the ark doors.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Oklahoma OKLAHOMA CITY Bricktown Canal, 7 30 p.m., residents holding 10,000 candles and with a solemn ceremony at the site of the Murrah Federal Building.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing an event as a "solemn ceremony", ensure that the context reflects a serious and respectful atmosphere. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact, so consider varying your language to maintain reader engagement.

Common error

Avoid using "solemn ceremony" to describe events that are merely formal or traditional without a genuine sense of gravity or reverence. Ensure the event carries a weight of significance to warrant the description.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "solemn ceremony" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific type of event marked by gravity and reverence. Ludwig's examples show it used in contexts like funerals, inaugurations, and commemorations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "solemn ceremony" effectively describes events characterized by seriousness, respect, and often remembrance. Ludwig AI indicates that it is grammatically correct and widely used, especially in news and media contexts. While alternatives like "formal ceremony" or "sacred ceremony" exist, "solemn ceremony" distinctly conveys a sense of gravity and reverence. When using this phrase, ensure the context aligns with its serious tone to maintain accuracy and impact. Avoid overusing the expression to prevent diminishing its significance in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

formal ceremony

Emphasizes the adherence to established protocols and decorum.

sacred ceremony

Highlights the religious or spiritual significance of the event.

dignified ceremony

Focuses on the event's air of respectability and honor.

official commemoration

Highlights the act of formally remembering an important event or person.

formal observance

Emphasizes the act of following a prescribed ritual or tradition.

respectful tribute

Shifts focus to the act of showing honor and admiration.

state occasion

Specifically refers to an event of national or governmental importance.

ritualistic observance

Highlights the adherence to a specific set of rites.

commemorative event

Focuses on the event's purpose of remembering and honoring.

grave proceeding

Emphasizes the serious and somber nature of the event.

FAQs

How to use "solemn ceremony" in a sentence?

You can use "solemn ceremony" to describe events like funerals, inaugurations, or commemorations. For example, "The funeral was a "solemn ceremony" attended by family and friends".

What can I say instead of "solemn ceremony"?

You can use alternatives like "formal ceremony", "sacred ceremony", or "dignified ceremony" depending on the context.

What distinguishes a "solemn ceremony" from a regular ceremony?

A "solemn ceremony" implies a deeper sense of gravity, respect, and often remembrance, setting it apart from more routine or celebratory events. It emphasizes the serious nature of the occasion.

Is "solemn ceremony" appropriate for describing a celebration?

While "solemn ceremony" can be part of a larger event that includes elements of celebration, it is best used to describe portions of the event characterized by seriousness and respect, rather than the celebratory aspects themselves.