sounds reassuring

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'sounds reassuring' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe something that has a calming, comforting, or encouraging effect. For example: "The doctor's words of comfort sounded reassuring."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Which sounds reassuring for schools, but is it?

The Guardian

And they are caught through human error.That sounds reassuring, but perhaps it shouldn't be.

The Economist

So his promise to get tough on all lawbreakers sounds reassuring to Argentines.

The New York Times

At first this sounds reassuring, until you wonder how much better the breast milk would be without the companion chemicals.

The New York Times - Magazine

The degree of participation will probably depend on whether inviting government apartment cleaners into one's home sounds reassuring or intrusive.

The New York Times

Isaac Held of America's National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration recently calculated his "personal best estimate" for the TCR: 1.4°C, reflecting the new estimates for aerosols and natural variability.That sounds reassuring: the TCR is below estimates for equilibrium climate sensitivity.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

These sights and sounds reassure me with their eternal simplicity.

Huffington Post

General Gul sounded reassuring.

The Guardian

Those safeguards all sound reassuring.

The New York Times

That does sound reassuring, but for whom, exactly?

The New Yorker

THE prime minister, Junichiro Koizumi, at first sounded reassuring.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sounds reassuring" to describe statements, plans, or information that provide comfort or reduce anxiety in a specific situation. For example, "The company's promise to honor all existing warranties sounds reassuring to concerned customers."

Common error

Avoid using "sounds reassuring" as a generic response. Always specify why something sounds reassuring to add depth and credibility. Instead of just saying "That sounds reassuring", explain what aspects of the information inspire confidence.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sounds reassuring" functions as a subjective assessment, indicating that something provides comfort or reduces anxiety. Ludwig provides numerous examples showing its use in evaluating statements, plans, and situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sounds reassuring" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe something that provides comfort or reduces anxiety. According to Ludwig, it is most frequently found in news and media contexts, and its usage is generally neutral, suitable for both formal and informal communication. While versatile, it's essential to provide context explaining why something sounds reassuring for added depth. Alternatives include "offers reassurance" and "instills confidence". Overall, the phrase is a valuable tool for conveying positive evaluations and promoting a sense of security.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

offers reassurance

Focuses on the act of giving reassurance rather than the quality of the sound.

instills confidence

Highlights the feeling of confidence that the phrase generates.

creates a sense of security

Emphasizes the feeling of safety and protection.

provides a sense of calm

Focuses on the calmness that the phrase brings.

gives reason for optimism

Stresses the positive outlook that the phrase suggests.

lends a feeling of security

Similar to creating a sense of security, but with a slightly different tone.

fosters a positive outlook

Emphasizes the active encouragement of a hopeful perspective.

promotes peace of mind

Highlights the tranquility and lack of worry.

is a comforting thought

Shifts the focus to the idea being comforting, not just the sound.

inspires a sense of hope

Highlights the feeling of hope that the phrase invokes.

FAQs

How can I use "sounds reassuring" in a sentence?

You can use "sounds reassuring" to describe something that gives comfort or reduces anxiety. For example, "The doctor's explanation of the procedure "sounds reassuring"."

What are some alternatives to "sounds reassuring"?

Alternatives include "offers reassurance", "instills confidence", or "creates a sense of security", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "sounds reassuring" in formal writing?

Yes, "sounds reassuring" is appropriate in formal writing as long as it aligns with the overall tone and purpose. However, consider more precise alternatives like "offers reassurance" or "provides a sense of calm" for heightened formality.

Can "sounds reassuring" be used sarcastically?

Yes, like many phrases, "sounds reassuring" can be used sarcastically to express the opposite of its literal meaning. The tone and context will typically indicate the sarcastic intention, such as when followed by a contrasting statement or a doubtful expression.