standing motionless

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "standing motionless" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is not moving at all, often in a state of stillness or contemplation. Example: "She was standing motionless in the middle of the room, lost in thought."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedia

News & Media

Arts

Travel

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Butterfly is still keeping vigil, standing motionless.

Encyclopedia Britannica

I darted back to Katya, who was standing motionless, and thrust Sonny at her.

The New Yorker

"In the sense that there are two guys standing motionless behind synths," Turkmen says drily.

The Guardian - Music

Hundreds of people were standing, motionless and quiet, watching the screens with open mouths.

The Guardian

White-jacketed staff remained standing, motionless, as the Cruzes were slowly pursued to the door.

The Washington Post

Dancers standing motionless were stirred into action, propelled by the force of their feelings.

The New York Times - Arts

Finally I came upon a woman standing motionless by an arched doorway.

The New York Times - Travel

I found my mother in the kitchen, standing motionless at the counter, staring down into a half-filled plastic bowl.

The New Yorker

He was revealed in the sudden yellow brightness, standing motionless, a look of bewilderment on his face.

The New Yorker

But referee Lee Mason not only ruled out the goal but booked the striker, who was standing motionless, for obstruction.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Thus A is resting at every instant of its flight, and this amounts to the moving arrow always being motionless or standing still.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "standing motionless" to create a sense of drama or suspense, emphasizing the stillness and potential anticipation of action.

Common error

Avoid using "standing motionless" when a simpler phrase like "standing still" suffices. "Standing motionless" is more impactful when highlighting a deliberate or significant stillness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "standing motionless" functions as a participial phrase, often acting as an adjective modifying a noun. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. It describes a state of being still and without movement, often emphasizing a deliberate or significant stillness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Encyclopedias

5%

Arts

5%

Less common in

Science

4%

Travel

3%

Wiki

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "standing motionless" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression that describes a state of stillness. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Its function is typically adjectival, modifying a noun to convey a lack of movement, often with added emphasis on intent or significance. Found across diverse contexts, especially in news and media, arts, and encyclopedia entries, the phrase maintains a neutral register. Alternatives such as "standing still" and "remaining motionless" offer similar meanings with slight variations in nuance. When employing this phrase, aim for precision and ensure it enhances the intended effect, such as suspense or focused observation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

standing still

This is a more common and general way to describe being stationary.

remaining motionless

This emphasizes the act of continuing to be without movement.

motionless posture

This highlights the position of the body while being still.

perfectly still

This emphasizes the complete absence of movement.

stock-still

This is a more emphatic and dramatic way to describe being completely still.

immobile

This suggests an inability to move, often due to physical restriction or choice.

transfixed

This implies stillness due to fascination or shock.

statuesque

This compares the stillness to that of a statue, often implying elegance or grandeur.

frozen in place

This suggests a sudden and unexpected cessation of movement.

like a statue

Simile that describes something staying without moving

FAQs

How can I use "standing motionless" in a sentence?

You can use "standing motionless" to describe a state of stillness, as in, "The guard was "standing motionless" outside the gate." It can also convey a sense of surprise or shock, for example, "She was "standing motionless", stunned by the news".

What are some alternatives to "standing motionless"?

Alternatives include "standing still", "remaining motionless", or "perfectly still". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired nuance.

Is there a difference between "standing motionless" and "standing still"?

While similar, "standing motionless" often implies a greater sense of intent or significance than "standing still". "Standing motionless" suggests a deliberate holding back of movement, whereas "standing still" can be more casual.

When is it appropriate to use "standing motionless" in writing?

Use "standing motionless" when you want to emphasize the stillness of a person or object, often to create a sense of anticipation, suspense, or drama. For example, "The dancer was "standing motionless", waiting for the music to begin".