1.
solemnly; quietly and gravely; in a dignified and subdued manner
Describes an atmosphere or manner that is solemn, hushed, and filled with gravity. Often used for formal or ceremonial occasions where everyone is still and serious.
会場は粛然としていた。
The venue was solemn and quiet.
参列者は粛然と頭を下げた。
The attendees solemnly bowed their heads.
判決が読み上げられると、法廷は粛然とした空気に包まれた。
When the verdict was read, the courtroom was enveloped in a solemn atmosphere.
A literary word used to describe an atmosphere of solemn stillness and gravity. Most commonly appears as 粛然と (adverbial form) or 粛然とした (modifying a noun).
FORMS:
- 粛然と: adverbial (solemnly)
- 粛然とした: modifying a noun (粛然とした雰囲気, a solemn atmosphere)
- 粛然たる: literary attributive form
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 粛然とした空気: a solemn atmosphere
- 粛然と立つ: to stand solemnly
- 粛然とした面持ち: a grave expression
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 厳粛: solemn, grave — a more common word; used as a na-adjective
- 荘厳: majestic, sublime — emphasizes grandeur and awe rather than quiet gravity
- しんと: dead silent — focuses purely on the absence of sound without the ceremonial gravity