The phrase "above a whisper" is spelled /əˈbʌv ə ˈwɪspər/. In this phrase, "above" is pronounced with a schwa vowel sound followed by the stressed /ʌ/ sound, which is similar to the "u" sound in "umbrella." "A" is pronounced with a schwa vowel sound, while "whisper" is pronounced with the /w/ consonant sound followed by the stressed /ɪ/ sound, which sounds like the "i" sound in "tickle." The phonetic transcription helps clarify the specific sounds and stress patterns of each word in the phrase.
"Above a whisper" refers to a level of sound that is louder or more audible than a whisper, but still relatively soft or quiet. It describes a sound that is slightly elevated in volume but falls short of being particularly loud or noisy. It implies a level of audibility that is more noticeable than a whisper, yet maintains a sense of calmness or a subdued tone.
The phrase can be used in various contexts. For example, in a conversation, if someone asks you to speak "above a whisper," they are requesting you to raise your voice slightly, ensuring that your words are clearly heard without being excessively loud or disruptive. Similarly, in a public setting like a library or a theater, a request to maintain your voice or any noise "above a whisper" would indicate that you should speak softly but audibly enough to be understood.
"Above a whisper" can also be used figuratively to describe something that is noteworthy or significant, but not excessively prominent or overt. For instance, a critique may describe a subtle gesture or a nuanced performance as being "above a whisper," highlighting its importance or impact without being too overt or exaggerated.
In summary, "above a whisper" denotes a level of sound that is louder than a whisper but remains soft and quiet, often implying a composed or restrained manner.