B1adjective1K

Silent

UK /["/ˈsaɪlənt/"]/US /["/ˈsaɪlənt/"]/

Definition

where there is little or no sound; making little or no sound

In simple words: Not making any noise.

Examples

  • The room was silent after the announcement was made.
  • She gave him a silent nod to show her agreement.
  • In the silent night, only the sound of crickets could be heard.
  • The film was so intense that the audience remained silent throughout.
  • He preferred to maintain a silent presence during the meeting.

Usage notes

Used to describe things or people that do not make sounds. Suitable in both spoken and written English. Avoid using in overly casual contexts where 'quiet' might be more fitting.

Grammar pattern

standalone adjective

Memory hint

Sounds like 'sigh-lent' - imagine someone who is so quiet, they sigh without a sound.

Collocations

  • be
  • seem
  • become
  • absolutely
  • completely
  • dead
  • about
  • on
  • be
  • seem
  • become
  • absolutely
  • completely
  • dead
  • about
  • on
  • be
  • seem
  • become
  • absolutely
  • completely
  • dead
  • about
  • on

Synonyms

  • quiet
  • quiet

Antonyms

  • noisy
  • loud
  • vocal

Common mistakes

  • 'Silent' vs 'quiet': 'Silent' means no noise at all, while 'quiet' means low noise.
  • Using 'silence' when 'silent' is required: 'The room was silent' not 'The room was silence.'
  • Confusing 'silent' with 'still' - 'Still' indicates no movement, while 'silent' refers only to sound.