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silence

/si.lɑ̃s/
noun★Beginner— absence of sound or noise
general

The state of being free from sound or noise; quietness.

Elle a demandé le silence dans la salle de classe.

She asked for silence in the classroom.

💡

Can also refer to the absence of communication or speech.

formal

A period of quiet or inactivity, especially in a formal or ceremonial context.

Un moment de silence a été observé pour honorer les victimes.

A moment of silence was observed to honor the victims.

💡

Often used in memorials or solemn events.

Collocations

garder le silenceto keep silentrompre le silenceto break the silenceun silence gênantan awkward silence

Synonyms

calmetranquillitémutisme

Antonyms

bruitvacarmetumulte

Related Phrases

briser le silencephrase
to break the silence
un silence radiophrase
radio silence

💡Pro Tip

Common Usage

'Silence' is often used to describe the absence of sound, but it can also refer to the absence of speech or communication.

⚡Gold Rule

Formal Context

In formal or ceremonial contexts, 'silence' is often used to denote a moment of quiet reflection or respect.

📖Word Origin

From Latin 'silentium', meaning 'silence' or 'quiet'.

📝Usage Notes

In French, 'silence' can also refer to the absence of speech or communication, not just the absence of sound.

Word Breakdown

sil-
related to being quiet or still
root
+
-ence
noun suffix indicating state or condition
suffix
Dictionnaire Français-Anglais

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