was uncommunicative

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "was uncommunicative" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is not willing to communicate or share information, often in a context where communication is expected or needed. Example: "During the meeting, he was uncommunicative, leaving the team unsure of his thoughts on the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

He was uncommunicative all through his life.

The New Yorker

Jones was uncommunicative and Morrison had books to sell.

The New Yorker

He was uncommunicative with players, the news media and the public.

The New York Times - Sports

Inside their unit, Cousy said, Russell was outgoing and witty, but when faced with racism on the outside, he was uncommunicative.

The New York Times - Sports

A first-grader was uncommunicative when his mother made an effort to find out how he spent his time in class, until she came to the period known as Free Time.

The New Yorker

On my birthday last year I visited Nick in hospital where he was uncommunicative and unable to eat any of the cake that my friends and I brought with us.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

The Scandinavians were uncommunicative, the Canadians dull.

The New York Times

For the times I have been uncommunicative.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"If your children are uncommunicative, baking together breaks the ice.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I'm not known for being uncommunicative," Mr. Kinsley said.

The New York Times

REBOUNDS ANTONIO McDYESS had criticized ISIAH THOMAS for being uncommunicative before he traded him.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "was uncommunicative", provide context to explain possible reasons for the lack of communication. For example, "She was uncommunicative due to the trauma she experienced."

Common error

Avoid assuming that someone who "was uncommunicative" in one instance is always that way. Lack of communication can stem from various temporary factors like stress, discomfort, or strategic intent, not necessarily an inherent personality trait.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "was uncommunicative" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe a state of not communicating. It typically follows a linking verb like "was" or "seemed". The examples in Ludwig illustrate various contexts where this phrase is used to describe a temporary lack of communication.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

12%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "was uncommunicative" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a state of non-communication. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and provides numerous examples from reliable sources. The phrase is most frequently found in News & Media and Science contexts, with a neutral register. While alternatives like "remained silent" or "was reticent" exist, the best choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When using "was uncommunicative", be mindful of potentially misinterpreting temporary silence as a permanent personality trait. Overall, it's a useful and versatile phrase for describing a temporary lack of communication in a variety of situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

was reticent

A more formal term for being unwilling to speak freely.

remained silent

Focuses on the act of not speaking, implying a deliberate choice to stay quiet.

was tight-lipped

Implies a deliberate refusal to speak, often about a sensitive topic.

didn't say a word

Emphasizes the complete absence of verbal communication.

refused to disclose

Highlights the act of withholding specific information.

held back information

Focuses on the active withholding of data or facts.

kept mum

An informal idiom suggesting a deliberate withholding of information.

wouldn't open up

Suggests an emotional unwillingness to share feelings or thoughts.

offered no comment

A formal way of refusing to provide information, often used in professional contexts.

clammed up

Informal phrase suggesting sudden silence, potentially due to nervousness or fear.

FAQs

How can I use "was uncommunicative" in a sentence?

You can use "was uncommunicative" to describe someone's temporary lack of communication. For example, "During the interview, the candidate "was uncommunicative", offering only brief answers".

What are some alternatives to saying someone "was uncommunicative"?

Alternatives include "remained silent", "was reticent", or "offered no comment", depending on the context.

Is it better to say "was uncommunicative" or "didn't communicate"?

"Was uncommunicative" implies a lack of willingness or ability to communicate, whereas "didn't communicate" is a more neutral statement of fact. Choose the phrase that best reflects the intended nuance.

What does it mean when someone "was uncommunicative"?

It suggests that the person wasn't sharing information or engaging in conversation as expected or desired, possibly due to reluctance, difficulty, or strategic reasons.