muttering
word · lemma: mutter
Definition
Speaking in a quiet, low voice that is often hard to understand, usually because a person is annoyed, complaining, or talking to themselves.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly informal; describes speech that's hard to hear or not intended to be clearly understood. Common after verbs like 'hear', 'caught', 'stop', often about annoyance or complaint. Different from 'whisper' (softer and more secretive) and 'mumble' (unclear speech).
Example Sentences
The students were muttering during the test.
basic
Stop muttering and tell me what you really think.
natural
She was muttering to herself in the kitchen.
basic
I heard him muttering something about the weather.
basic
I caught him muttering under his breath after the meeting.
natural
She’s always muttering complaints, but never says them out loud.
natural