a cold stare

USAGE SUMMARY

"a cold stare" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe someone giving a stern, uninviting look. For example: "The teacher gave the students a cold stare as they entered the classroom."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

If the boy keeps staring at you in class and you caught him staring at you, just turn and give him a cold stare.

WikiHow

Mandela gave me a cold stare.

The Washington Post

Mr. Cochrane shot his noisy neighbors a cold stare.

The New York Times

He looks back at me with a cold stare.

The New York Times

He throws me a cold stare, then shuts his eyes.

The Guardian - Music

You give her a cold stare through narrowed eyes.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

Several sales ladies cooed at him but he only offered a long, cold stare.

The New Yorker

It was fascinating to see the reaction of Murray's coach, Ivan Lendl, to Murray's meltdown during the match — a stone cold stare that offered no support for Murray's self-defeating behavior.

The New York Times

The cold look is a really cold stare.

WikiHow

Forrest makes his own brooding appearance, often with an uncomfortably cold stare into the camera.

Vice

Within seconds of entering the room, Maya flashes Baby a shudderingly unprofessional cold stare.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a cold stare" to depict a character's reaction in literature or creative writing to convey dislike, disapproval, or intimidation succinctly.

Common error

Avoid using "a cold stare" when you intend to describe surprise or confusion. "A cold stare" specifically conveys negative emotions like disapproval or hostility, not bewilderment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a cold stare" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a verb (e.g., "gave a cold stare") or as a descriptive element modifying a noun (e.g., "his cold stare"). As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct phrase to use.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

10%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a cold stare" is a noun phrase that describes a nonverbal expression used to convey negative emotions. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It's most commonly found in "News & Media" contexts, suggesting a neutral register. While not extremely common, its usage is consistent and effective for depicting dislike, disapproval, or intimidation. Consider using related phrases like "an icy glare" or "a steely gaze" for nuanced expression. Remember that cultural interpretations of eye contact can vary, so be mindful of the intended audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an icy glare

This alternative intensifies the coldness of the look, implying a more hostile or unfriendly expression.

a glacial stare

This intensifies the coldness to an extreme degree, suggesting an almost inhuman lack of emotion.

a steely gaze

This option focuses on the unwavering and determined aspect of the look, suggesting firmness and resolve.

a frosty look

This phrase emphasizes the unwelcoming and distant nature of the expression.

a hard look

This is a more general expression, focusing on the intensity and lack of warmth in the look.

a stern gaze

This phrase focuses on the serious and authoritative nature of the look.

a sharp glance

This indicates a quick, piercing look that conveys disapproval or suspicion.

a withering look

This implies a look so severe it could make someone feel insignificant or ashamed.

a disapproving glance

This option directly states the nature of the look as one of disapproval.

a blank expression

This implies a lack of emotion or understanding, rather than a specific negative emotion.

FAQs

How can I use "a cold stare" in a sentence?

You can use "a cold stare" to describe someone's reaction, for instance: "The suspect gave the detective "a cold stare" when questioned about the alibi.".

What does "a cold stare" typically imply?

"A cold stare" typically conveys disapproval, dislike, or a sense of superiority. It's often used to intimidate or express strong negative feelings without words.

What's the difference between "a cold stare" and "a blank stare"?

While both involve staring, ""a cold stare"" communicates negative emotions, whereas "a blank stare" suggests a lack of understanding or emotion.

Are there any situations where "a cold stare" might be misinterpreted?

Yes, in some cultural contexts, direct eye contact might be considered rude. What one person perceives as ""a cold stare"", another might see as normal or assertive behavior.