Meaning & use
the silence is deafening
Last updated
Meanings
phrasefixed phrasefigurative
Used to say that a lack of response or sound is very noticeable and uncomfortable, often because it shows disapproval or shock.
Grammar: The phrase is used as a complete clause; it does not take an object.
Patterns
- the silence is deafening
When I asked if anyone had questions, the silence was deafening.
After the bad news, the silence was deafening in the room.
phrasefixed phrase
Used more literally to describe a sudden complete quiet that feels very intense and noticeable.
Grammar: Also used literally when a loud noise stops and the quiet feels shocking.
Patterns
- the silence is deafening
The music stopped and the silence was deafening.
In the forest at night, the silence was deafening.
Common combinations
- a deafening silence
- There was a deafening silence after she finished speaking.
- the silence was deafening
- When he asked for volunteers, the silence was deafening.
- meet with a deafening silence
- His suggestion met with a deafening silence.
Synonyms and how they differ
- a pregnant pause
- This refers to a short pause that is full of meaning, while 'the silence is deafening' describes a longer, more uncomfortable quiet.
- a stunned silence
- This emphasizes that people are too shocked to speak, whereas 'the silence is deafening' focuses on the loudness of the quiet itself.
Practice
After the teacher asked who had broken the window, the silence was ______.
Choose one answer.
The fixed expression uses the adjective 'deafening' to describe the silence. 'Deaf' means unable to hear and does not fit the idiom.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “the silence is deafening”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.