without a sound

USAGE SUMMARY

"without a sound" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that happens without making any noise or sound. It is often used in descriptive writing or storytelling to create a visual image or add detail to a scene. Example: The cat crept into the room without a sound, its paws barely making a whisper against the hardwood floor.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Some days pass, without a sound.

The New Yorker

I played on them, without a sound.

The New Yorker

I played them, without a sound.

The New Yorker

Without a sound she absorbs it".

The Guardian

He went over the falls without a sound".

The New York Times

Without a sound technological and scientific basis, industrial ecology will remain in theory and philosophy books.

Developments in Mineral Processing

The courtship unrolls, literally, without a sound, and so does the entire performance.

The New York Times

The panel swung open without a sound, at a touch of his raised foot.

The New Yorker

I'm a firm believer in lip-synching without a sound coming out.

The New York Times

As such, management decisions are being made without a sound understanding of the ecology of ecosystem engineers.

Marine Pollution Bulletin

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

In other words, an unfavourable reaction without sound business premise can be construed as discriminatory behaviour.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "without a sound" to vividly describe actions or movements that occur in complete silence, enhancing the sensory experience for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "without a sound" when you simply mean 'quietly'. The phrase implies a complete absence of noise, not just a low volume.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "without a sound" typically functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe how an action is performed. It indicates the manner in which something occurs, emphasizing the absence of noise. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly used in descriptive writing.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "without a sound" is a versatile adverbial phrase that describes actions performed in complete silence. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and commonly used, predominantly in descriptive contexts across news, media, scientific and academic writing. When using the phrase, ensure it genuinely reflects a total absence of noise to maximize its impact and sensory effect. Alternatives such as "silently" or "noiselessly" can provide similar meanings. Being a neutral register phrase, it fits in both formal and informal writing purposes.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

soundlessly

This is a direct synonym emphasizing the absence of sound during an action.

silently

This alternative is an adverb that directly describes an action performed in silence.

noiselessly

Similar to 'silently', but explicitly emphasizes the absence of noise.

in silence

This alternative is a prepositional phrase that indicates a state of quiet.

quietly

This alternative describes an action performed with minimal sound.

without making a noise

This alternative is more explicit about the lack of noise production.

inaudibly

This alternative suggests that any sound produced is impossible to hear.

mute

This alternative suggests a condition or state of not producing any sound.

hushly

This alternative describes something done quietly and secretly.

deafeningly quiet

This alternative is an oxymoron that highlights an intense absence of sound.

FAQs

How can I use "without a sound" in a sentence?

You can use "without a sound" to describe an action performed silently, for instance, "The thief moved "silently" across the room "without a sound"".

What are some alternatives to saying "without a sound"?

Alternatives include "noiselessly", "silently", or "inaudibly", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "without a sound" or "in silence"?

Both "without a sound" and "in silence" are correct, but "without a sound" typically describes an action, while "in silence" describes a state or condition. For example, "He crept "without a sound"" versus "They sat "in silence"".

Can "without a sound" be used to describe something positive?

Yes, "without a sound" can be used in positive contexts to emphasize peacefulness or stealth. For example, "The snow fell "without a sound", creating a serene landscape."