You could hear a pin drop

usgb
phrase

Used to describe an extremely quiet or silent situation.

When the teacher walked in, you could hear a pin drop, such was the level of silence.
Visual representation of "you could hear a pin drop" - Used to describe an extremely quiet or silent situation

Often appears as...

  • room was so quiet
  • you could hear a pin drop

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "you could hear a pin drop"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Tense Expectation

Suggests a moment of high suspense when everyone is silently waiting for something to happen.

Illustration for Tense Expectation
Right before the verdict was announced, you could hear a pin drop.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Surprise Reaction

Implies that an event was so surprising or shocking that people became completely silent.

Illustration for Surprise Reaction
After the unexpected win, you could hear a pin drop in the stadium.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Seriousness Indicator

Indicates a very serious atmosphere where silence is a response to gravity of situation.

Illustration for Seriousness Indicator
As the CEO discussed layoffs, you could hear a pin drop in the boardroom.
Visual representation of the word "You could hear a pin drop"

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