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Be quiet Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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be quiet

[bi ˈkwaɪət ]

Definition

Context #1 | Phrase

instructing someone to be silent

Used to ask someone to stop talking or make less noise.

Synonyms

hush, shush, silent.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
be quiet

Same as the previous entry, as 'be quiet' is being repeated.

  • Could you be quiet, please? I'm trying to work.
  • The teacher asked the students to be quiet.
hush

Often used to gently calm someone down or ask for silence, especially with children. It can be seen as soothing.

  • Hush, little baby, don't you cry.
  • Hush now, everything will be okay.
silent

Used to describe a state of complete silence, often in more formal or specific contexts where absolute silence is needed.

  • The room was completely silent during the exam.
  • He remained silent throughout the entire conversation.
shush

Used to quickly and sometimes abruptly ask someone to be silent. Can come off as more forceful or impatient.

  • Shush! The movie is starting.
  • He shushed her during the meeting.

Examples of usage

  • Be quiet, I'm trying to concentrate.
  • Please be quiet during the movie.
  • She told the children to be quiet in the library.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'be quiet'

The phrase 'be quiet' has been used in English for centuries to politely ask someone to stop talking or reduce noise levels. It is a common and straightforward way to communicate the need for silence or reduced volume. The origins of the phrase can be traced back to early English language usage, where the importance of silence was emphasized in various contexts.