Whispering: questions and Band 8 answers

Not really, no. I only tend to lower my voice like that when I'm in a quiet place, such as a library or during a cinema screening. Day to day, I just speak at a normal volume because whispering feels a bit awkward if it's not strictly necessary.

Just a couple of days ago, actually. I was studying in the university library with a friend from my flat, and we needed to discuss some notes without disturbing the other students around us. It felt quite natural given the quiet environment.

To be honest, it can be a bit off-putting if it happens in a small social group. It often makes you feel as though people are talking behind your back or sharing secrets, which isn't very pleasant. In public spaces, though, it doesn't bother me at all.

Oh, definitely. Back in primary school, my desk mate and I were always getting into trouble for whispering during maths lessons. Our teacher used to make us swap desks whenever we got caught gossiping, which happened far too often!

Yes, I suppose it depends on the context. If you're having dinner with a group of friends and two people start whispering, it can seem quite exclusionary and ill-mannered. But in places where keeping quiet is polite, like an art gallery, it's totally acceptable.