a blank expression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a blank expression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's face when they show no emotion or reaction, often indicating confusion, surprise, or deep thought. Example: "When she heard the unexpected news, she responded with a blank expression, unable to find the right words."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The minister responded with a blank expression.

The Guardian - Opinion

A rictus is NOT a blank expression.

The New York Times

Intellectuals may have difficulty assuming a blank expression.

The New York Times

He hid behind sunglasses, a hat and a blank expression.

The Economist

Lagarde affects a blank expression of innocence, and starts to laugh.

The Guardian

Fink offers a quizzical look, a blank expression, and starts to applaud again.

The New York Times - Sports

The lieutenant lay in the dirt, motionless, a blank expression on his face.

The New Yorker

DROP Randy Newman's name to many people and you may draw a blank expression.

The New York Times

One man was lying on the embankment, facing up with a blank expression.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Second baseman Edgardo Alfonzo stood behind the cage, stoic, a blank expression.

The New York Times - Sports

ON THE SCREEN -- The screen fills with the visage of Mr. Bush, wearing a blank expression.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a photograph or visual media, "a blank expression" can indicate a subject's emotional state or lack thereof, adding depth to the visual narrative.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "a blank expression" always signifies indifference or lack of understanding. It can also indicate shock, deep concentration, or an attempt to conceal emotions. Context is crucial for accurate interpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a blank expression" primarily functions as a noun phrase, acting as the subject or object of a sentence to describe a facial appearance devoid of emotion or reaction. Ludwig examples illustrate its use in describing reactions to news, observations of individuals, and character portrayals.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a blank expression" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a face devoid of emotion or reaction. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently found in news and media, with neutral register, serving the purpose of describing someone's appearance. While it can indicate indifference, it's crucial to consider the context, as it may also signify shock, deep thought, or an attempt to conceal emotions. When writing, consider alternative phrases like "an expressionless face" or "a vacant stare" to achieve slight differences in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an expressionless face

Focuses on the lack of any discernible expression.

a vacant stare

Emphasizes the emptiness and lack of focus in the gaze.

a deadpan look

Highlights a deliberately emotionless or impassive appearance.

an impassive countenance

Uses more formal language to describe a lack of emotional display.

a poker face

Refers to a deliberate attempt to conceal emotions, especially in gambling.

a wooden face

Suggests stiffness and lack of animation in facial expression.

a glazed look

Implies a lack of awareness or understanding, as if the eyes are unfocused.

an empty gaze

Focuses on the eyes as conveying a lack of thought or emotion.

a non-expressive face

Directly states the absence of any expression.

a face devoid of emotion

Highlights the absence of emotional display on the face.

FAQs

How can I use "a blank expression" in a sentence?

You can use "a blank expression" to describe someone's face when they're showing no emotion. For example, "He stared at the news with "a blank expression", betraying no hint of what he was thinking."

What's the difference between "a blank expression" and "an expressionless face"?

While similar, "a blank expression" suggests a momentary lack of emotional display, whereas "an expressionless face" might imply a more permanent or characteristic trait. Both describe a lack of visible emotion but to slightly different degrees.

What can I say instead of "a blank expression"?

Alternatives include "a vacant stare", "a deadpan look", or "an impassive countenance". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to have "a blank expression"?

Not necessarily. While it can indicate confusion or lack of engagement, "a blank expression" can also signify composure under pressure, deep thought, or an attempt to mask strong emotions.