utterance

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "utterance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a spoken statement or comment. For example: "His utterance was met with resounding applause."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There are the fixed true sounds (varṇa), and then there are the uttered sounds (vacana, "utterance").

SEP

And if they (we) read what is conveyed by the relevant utterance onto the sentence uttered, the knowledge denial will strike them (us) as expressing a truth.

SEP

How can Bradwardine's claim that Socrates utters a falsehood be true, while Socrates' utterance of the same thing is false?

SEP

Giles's role was somewhere between superhero and caring dad, often getting us out of trouble with the calm utterance, "Bear awaaay," and by the end of the trip everyone's confidence and ability had come on in leaps and bounds.

The Guardian - Travel

No mere utterance, then or now, could do justice to the soaring heights of language Mr Lincoln reached that day.

The Guardian

This episode also brought out his most alarming and sometimes absurd characteristic, the Cassandra complex coupled with a penchant for Delphic utterance.

The Guardian

Whatever the views of critics, his playing had an underlying simplicity and directness of utterance that listeners found compelling.

The Guardian - Music

After the unsuccessful spill motion against Tony Abbott in February, Turnbull's every move and media utterance is scrutinised for leadership implications.

The Guardian

The long-suppressed soul of a nation may not find utterance on 18 September.

The Guardian - Opinion

His clarity of intellect was reflected in a clarity of utterance which gave him a special connection with the public, who prized him for his ability to speak human.

The Guardian - Opinion

And for fans of Anglo-Saxon and plain speech, there was even a strategically placed utterance celebrating the female form, with not a See You Next Tuesday euphemism in sight.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "utterance" when you want to emphasize the act of speaking or the content of what was said, especially in formal or analytical contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "utterance" in casual conversation; simpler words like "statement" or "comment" are usually more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "utterance" is as a noun, referring to the act of speaking or something that is said. The term is used across various domains, including philosophy and news reporting, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

1%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "utterance" is a noun referring to the act of speaking or something that is said. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used, especially in formal contexts like academic papers, scientific research, and news reports. When choosing a substitute, consider the specific nuance you want to convey, such as "statement" for content or "remark" for a brief comment. While "utterance" is appropriate for formal settings, avoid it in casual conversation where simpler terms would suffice. Always consider the context to ensure the most effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spoken word

Simple and direct synonym for something that is spoken.

spoken statement

Emphasizes the aspect of something being said aloud.

vocal expression

Highlights the act of conveying thoughts or feelings through voice.

verbal communication

Focuses on the process of exchanging information using words.

oral declaration

Suggests a formal or official announcement made verbally.

articulated thought

Highlights the clear and distinct expression of an idea.

expressed remark

Focuses on a comment or observation that has been voiced.

verbalization

Highlights the process of putting thoughts into words.

vocalization

A more technical term for the act of producing sound with the voice.

remark

A brief statement or comment.

FAQs

How can I use "utterance" in a sentence?

Use "utterance" to refer to a spoken statement or a way of speaking. For instance, "His "calm utterance" reassured everyone" or "The philosopher analyzed the meaning behind each "political utterance"".

What words can I use instead of "utterance"?

Alternatives include "statement", "remark", "comment", "declaration", or "pronouncement", depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "utterance" and "statement"?

"Utterance" generally refers to the act of speaking or the way something is said, while "statement" emphasizes the content or message being conveyed. You may use "statement" if you are referring to the the message. However, if you are referring to the act of communicating or speaking, use "utterance".

Is "utterance" appropriate for academic writing?

Yes, "utterance" is suitable for academic writing, particularly in fields like linguistics, philosophy, and communication studies, where the act and manner of speaking are analyzed in detail.