stayed mute

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stayed mute" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who remained silent or did not speak in a particular situation. Example: "During the heated debate, she stayed mute, choosing not to voice her opinion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

"I had stayed mute too long; I had stayed mute too often," one of them says in the video.

The New York Times

Of the veto-wielders, only China, which remains loth to punish Iran, stayed mute.

The Economist

Most media companies have stayed mute on the subject, but in an interview this week, the media mogul Barry Diller called the proposal a sham.

The New York Times - Tech

So Pink made its noise, the towers stayed mute, the mob flicked on lighters at the end and then we spent three hours breaking the amps down and loading the truck.

The New York Times

And out beyond the dinner table ellipse of distinguished novelists and diffident poets (Larkin, by all accounts, stayed mute and was rebuked with a cry of "You haven't said anything yet"), there were other observers quietly taking notes.

The Guardian - Books

In protest, the lawyers stayed mute, and Shakur and Sadiki conducted their own defense.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

But the White House cannot stay mute for long.

The New York Times

Yet most public memorials stay mute about the more divisive chapters of history.

Independent

Most Israeli Jews, however, seemed to feel comfortable with Justice Joubran's approach — standing respectfully but staying mute.

The New York Times

Now a government demands people stay mute about allegations as disturbing as threatening a witness in a murder trial.

The Guardian - Opinion

Simulation is rife in football, but even though some actions clearly bring the game into disrepute, the authorities stay mute.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stayed mute" when you want to emphasize a deliberate choice to remain silent, especially in situations where one might expect speech or a reaction. It's useful for highlighting restraint or a strategic lack of communication.

Common error

Avoid using "stayed mute" when simply describing a quiet environment or someone who is naturally taciturn. This phrase implies a conscious decision to not speak in a context where speech is expected or warranted.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stayed mute" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as a predicate in a sentence. It describes the action of remaining silent, often implying a deliberate choice not to speak, and, according to Ludwig AI, it is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Wiki

12%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "stayed mute" is a grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the act of consciously remaining silent, particularly in situations where one might expect a verbal response. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability in written English. While "stayed mute" is not overly formal, it carries a neutral tone and is most frequently found in News & Media. When opting for alternative phrases, consider "remained silent" or "kept quiet" depending on the specific nuance required. Be mindful to reserve the phrase for scenarios where the silence is a deliberate act, rather than a simple absence of speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remained silent

Focuses on the continuation of silence without necessarily implying a previous state of speaking.

maintained silence

Highlights the act of actively keeping quiet.

kept quiet

Suggests a deliberate effort to avoid making noise or speaking.

refrained from speaking

Emphasizes the act of consciously holding back from verbal communication.

held one's tongue

An idiomatic expression indicating a decision not to speak, often due to tact or fear.

did not utter a word

Highlights the complete absence of speech.

was uncommunicative

Describes a general lack of willingness to share information or engage in conversation.

offered no comment

Implies a refusal to provide an opinion or information, often in response to a specific inquiry.

observed silence

Describes a period of intentional quiet, often for respect or mourning.

bade their peace

Formal, almost archaic, way of saying someone remained silent.

FAQs

How can I use "stayed mute" in a sentence?

You can use "stayed mute" to describe someone who deliberately remained silent in a situation where they might have been expected to speak. For example: "During the confrontation, she "stayed mute", refusing to engage with the accusations."

What are some alternatives to "stayed mute"?

Some alternatives to "stayed mute" include "remained silent", "kept quiet", or "refrained from speaking". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "stayed silent" or "stayed mute"?

"Stayed silent" and "stayed mute" are very similar. "Stayed mute" often implies a more deliberate or strategic decision to not speak, while "stayed silent" can be a more general description of a lack of speech.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "stayed mute"?

It's appropriate to use "stayed mute" when you want to emphasize a conscious decision to not speak, especially in a situation where someone might expect a verbal response or opinion. The phrase can add a layer of meaning suggesting resistance, disapproval, or strategic withholding of information.