What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
silentness
Example
The silentness of the library was only interrupted by the occasional turning of pages. [silentness: noun]
Example
The teacher waited in silentness for the students to finish their test. [silentness: noun]
stillness
Example
The stillness of the lake was only broken by the occasional ripple caused by a fish. [stillness: noun]
Example
She sat in stillness, trying to clear her mind of all thoughts. [stillness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Stillness is more commonly used than silentness in everyday language. Stillness is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while silentness is less common and refers specifically to the absence of sound or noise.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between silentness and stillness?
Both silentness and stillness are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.