silent

word

/ˈsaɪɫənt/
SY-luhnt
/sˈaɪlənt/
SY-luhnt

Definition

Not making any sound, or not speaking. It can describe a quiet place, a person who says nothing, or something that happens without noise.

Usage & Nuances

Common with nouns like 'silent room', 'silent movie', 'silent treatment', and 'keep silent'. 'Quiet' is often more natural for places or general noise level, while 'silent' sounds stronger and means completely without sound. It can also suggest emotional distance when describing people.

Example Sentences

The library was silent all afternoon.

basic

He stayed silent during the meeting.

basic

Please keep your phone on silent in class.

basic

She went completely silent after I mentioned his name.

natural

The group chat went silent for hours after that message.

natural

He gave me the silent treatment all weekend.

natural