utterly quiet

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "utterly quiet" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of complete silence or absence of noise. Example: "The library was utterly quiet, allowing the students to focus on their studies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

The new Cairo: deserted and utterly quiet at night except for the sounds of gunfire.

The New York Times

The underground floors are utterly quiet, with a constant ambient temperature of about 58 degrees.

The New York Times

"We went in the opposite direction, utterly serene and utterly quiet".

The New York Times - Magazine

The newly paved streets and tidy yards were empty and utterly quiet.

The New York Times

"There's nothing you can tell me about this," Mr. Gephardt tells his listeners, who are utterly quiet by the end.

The New York Times

Aside from the whistling wings of a pair of common goldeneyes in flight, it was utterly quiet.

The New York Times - Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

It was quiet, utterly devoid of torment.

The New York Times

"Let It Die" (Cherry Tree/Interscope) revealed a singer who understood the impact of quiet, utterly exposed performances.

The New York Times - Arts

Nor does it alter that what happened at the wolf hour in that quiet, utterly secure housing estate is something that all of us all over the world recognized.

Independent

My family, including two small girls who were made very welcome, stayed in a standard room -- nothing fancy, utterly comfortable, spacious, quiet, sunny, with cool tiles on the floor, pleasant art on the walls and the gently rocking surf just below us.

The New York Times - Travel

"Foyle's War". Created and written almost entirely by bestselling novelist Anthony Horowitz, "Foyle's War" is the Mona Lisa of television: small, quiet, utterly hypnotic and mysteriously perfect.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "utterly quiet" to create a strong sense of tranquility or to emphasize the complete absence of noise, particularly in descriptive writing where you want to evoke a specific mood or atmosphere.

Common error

Avoid using "utterly quiet" excessively in dialogue, as it can sound unnatural. Opt for more conversational phrases that convey silence or a lack of sound if characters are speaking.

Linguistic Context

"Utterly quiet" functions as an intensifier (utterly) modifying an adjective (quiet). Ludwig AI indicates it describes a state of complete silence or absence of noise. It adds emphasis to the adjective, highlighting the depth and completeness of the silence, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "utterly quiet" is a grammatically sound and effective way to describe complete silence. As Ludwig AI highlights, it functions as an intensifier modifying an adjective, adding emphasis and depth to the description. While not exceedingly common, with 10 examples, its use is generally considered neutral and fitting for a variety of contexts, particularly in descriptive writing and journalism. Alternative phrases, such as ""completely silent"" or ""totally silent"", can be used for similar effect, depending on the desired nuance. Ludwig's analysis confirms that "utterly quiet" is a reliable and evocative phrase for conveying a profound sense of stillness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

completely silent

Emphasizes the absence of any sound, focusing on the state of being without noise.

totally silent

Similar to "completely silent", stresses the all-encompassing nature of the silence.

absolutely noiseless

Focuses on the complete absence of any noise, emphasizing the lack of auditory disturbance.

entirely soundless

Similar to "absolutely noiseless", highlighting the total lack of sound.

peacefully quiet

Suggests a serene and calming silence, emphasizing the tranquility of the environment.

perfectly still

Highlights the lack of movement or activity, suggesting a serene and undisturbed environment.

serenely silent

Similar to "peacefully quiet", highlighting the calm and undisturbed nature of the silence.

remarkably quiet

Indicates a silence that is noteworthy or surprising, often in contrast to an expected level of noise.

exceptionally still

Stresses the unusual or remarkable nature of the stillness.

dead silent

Implies an eerie or unsettling silence, often associated with death or suspense.

FAQs

How can I use "utterly quiet" in a sentence?

You can use "utterly quiet" to describe a place or situation where there is complete silence, for example: "The forest was "utterly quiet", save for the occasional rustle of leaves."

What are some alternatives to saying "utterly quiet"?

Some alternatives include "completely silent", "totally silent", or "perfectly still", depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "utterly silent" instead of "utterly quiet"?

While "silent" and "quiet" are similar, "utterly silent" can emphasize a deeper, more profound absence of sound compared to ""utterly quiet"". The choice depends on the desired level of emphasis.

In what contexts is "utterly quiet" most appropriate?

"Utterly quiet" is appropriate in descriptive writing, setting a scene, or when emphasizing a complete absence of sound. It works well in both literary and journalistic contexts where a strong sense of silence is intended.