Wall of silence Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A situation where a group of people refuse to talk or provide information about something, especially to avoid trouble or protect someone.
Usage & Nuances
This is often used in news, legal, or social contexts when people collectively refuse to talk. Common collocations: 'break a wall of silence', 'encounter a wall of silence'. Usually metaphorical; avoid using for physical walls.
Example Sentences
The community put up a wall of silence after the incident.
basic
Police tried to break the wall of silence during their investigation.
basic
There is a wall of silence in the office about the decision.
basic
When I asked about the missing files, I hit a wall of silence.
natural
The scandal was surrounded by a wall of silence from everyone involved.
natural
It took months before anyone dared to break the wall of silence.
natural