utter silence

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utter silence" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is typically used to describe a complete absence of sound or noise. Example: As the performer took the stage, the crowd fell into utter silence, anxiously waiting for the show to begin.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Utter silence in the forest.

University of California, Berkeley

The reaction of the OAS? Utter silence.

The Washington Post

I watched them eat their meal in utter silence.

The New York Times

Chapman was then taken from the court in utter silence.

The Guardian

The cabinet fell into utter silence for two minutes.

The Guardian

We all went to bed in utter silence.

The Guardian - Film

"There was utter silence when I told them".

The New York Times

There was utter silence for Brahms's "Four Serious Songs".

The New Yorker

I walked down the tracks in utter silence.

The New York Times - Travel

The thing that surprised them the most was the utter silence of the place.

The New York Times

"Thanks to globalization, you can no longer commit murder under cover of utter silence".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid overusing "utter silence" in descriptions. Reserve it for moments when the silence is particularly significant or impactful to maintain its effectiveness.

Common error

While "utter silence" often implies a negative or tense situation, it can also describe peaceful or contemplative moments. Ensure the surrounding context clarifies the intended emotion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "utter silence" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It typically describes a state or condition, indicating a complete lack of sound. Ludwig provides many examples that show this function, highlighting how the phrase contributes to the overall meaning of a sentence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "utter silence" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that effectively conveys a complete absence of sound. As confirmed by Ludwig, it is typically used to create a specific atmosphere or emphasize a moment's quietude. Its neutral register allows for versatile application across various writing styles, particularly in news and media, as well as academic contexts. When using this phrase, consider the intended emotional tone to ensure the surrounding context aligns appropriately. Alternatives such as ""complete quiet"" or ""deafening stillness"" can offer slightly different shades of meaning. The high source quality and consistent usage patterns indicate its reliability as a descriptive phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absolute quietness

Highlights the unqualified nature of the quiet, leaving no room for any noise.

complete quiet

Emphasizes the completeness of the quiet, focusing on the lack of any sound whatsoever.

pin drop silence

A common idiom emphasizing that the quiet is so complete that even the sound of a pin dropping would be audible.

total hush

Implies a sudden and profound quiet, often in anticipation or reverence.

unbroken quiet

Highlights the continuous and uninterrupted nature of the silence.

deafening stillness

Creates a paradox, suggesting the silence is so intense it feels overwhelming.

unrelieved silence

Similar to "unbroken quiet", but suggests the silence is persistent and possibly unwanted.

profound soundlessness

Emphasizes the depth and significance of the lack of sound.

deathly silence

Suggests a silence that is unsettling and ominous, often associated with death or danger.

eerie quiet

Conveys a silence that is strange and unsettling, often in a mysterious or supernatural setting.

FAQs

How can I use "utter silence" in a sentence?

You can use "utter silence" to describe a complete absence of sound, such as: "The audience fell into "utter silence" as the conductor raised his baton" or "An "utter silence" filled the room after the shocking announcement".

What's the difference between "complete silence" and "utter silence"?

Both "complete silence" and "utter silence" describe an absence of sound. "Utter silence" however, often suggests a more profound or noticeable quiet, sometimes with an emotional or dramatic undertone.

What can I say instead of "utter silence"?

Alternatives to "utter silence" include "complete quiet", "total hush", or "deafening stillness". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever appropriate to use "utter silence" in formal writing?

Yes, "utter silence" is appropriate for formal writing when you want to emphasize a profound or significant lack of sound. Its use is not limited to informal contexts.