What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
quiet
Example
Please be quiet in the library. [quiet: adjective]
Example
The quiet of the forest was interrupted by the sound of a bird chirping. [quiet: noun]
Example
She's always been a quiet and introspective person. [quiet: adjective]
silent
Example
The room was silent except for the ticking of the clock. [silent: adjective]
Example
He remained silent throughout the entire meeting. [silent: adjective]
Example
She's usually silent in large groups, but very talkative with close friends. [silent: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Quiet is more commonly used than silent in everyday language. Quiet is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while silent is often reserved for more specific or intense situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between quiet and silent?
Both quiet and silent can be used in formal and informal contexts, but silent may be perceived as more formal due to its intensity and specificity.
