a defiant expression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a defiant expression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a facial expression or demeanor that shows resistance or boldness against authority or expectations. Example: "Her face wore a defiant expression as she stood up to the critics, unafraid to voice her opinion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Laurence Pieau is wearing bright-red stiletto lace-up boots and a defiant expression.

The Guardian

With a defiant expression on his face, Mr. Michaloliakos raised his cuffed hands as he was escorted by police officers.

The New York Times

The cover features a 25-year-old Cherry wearing a defiant expression, dollar-sign earrings, stacks of gold bracelets, and on her hands the tape more usually used by boxers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

About 20 feet across from the famous "Charging Bull" statue — a symbol of Wall Street's strength and might that has loomed over the street since 1989 — a bronze statue of a girl stands facing it, hands on hips, a defiant expression carved into her face.

The Washington Post

3) Younger members of the 99percentt, like Anon, who also know this promise is empty, but who support Trump as a defiant expression of despair.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

With rainbow knock-off Oakley sunglasses obscuring half of his cross-tattoo covered face, camo hoodie (hood up), and face set in a decidedly defiant expression, the guy on the poster looked like a fucker who'd come find me and slice my ears off if I didn't like his hit single, which I gathered from the poster was called "Murder One".

Vice

Asked what made her flee her husband after so many months, Arwa gazed up, an intense, defiant expression in her eyes.

The New York Times

"What once was a courageous act of defiant expression," he said, "is now perfectly lawful, and therefore is not worth the effort".

The New York Times

He rose to his feet with the grimly defiant expression of a man expecting to be marched to the guillotine as he heard his captain's words: "From Windermere, Florida – Tiger Woods".

The Guardian - Sport

The bemused yet defiant expression of Iceland's prime minister, Geir Haarde, personified the response of a nation.

The Guardian - Opinion

He has the look of Bruce Lee down pat, with the same defiant expression and spare but muscled frame.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a defiant expression" to vividly portray a character's resistance or courage in the face of opposition. This phrase can add depth and emotion to your writing.

Common error

Avoid constantly describing characters' expressions, especially in dialogue. Show defiance through their words and actions, rather than repeatedly stating they have "a defiant expression".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a defiant expression" functions as a noun phrase. It typically serves as the object of a verb (e.g., 'wore', 'had') or as a complement describing a person's state or demeanor. Ludwig confirms its proper usage in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a defiant expression" is a grammatically correct and usable English phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig, that describes a facial expression or demeanor showing resistance or challenge. While not exceptionally common, it appears primarily in news and media contexts to vividly portray characters in situations of opposition. When writing, balance its use with actions and dialogue to effectively convey defiance. Alternatives like "a rebellious look" or "a challenging gaze" can be considered for variety. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various writing styles.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a rebellious look

Focuses specifically on the visual aspect, the look in someone's eyes.

a challenging gaze

Emphasizes the intensity and confrontational nature of the look.

an insubordinate attitude

Shifts from a specific expression to an overall behavior.

a resistant demeanor

Describes general behavior showing opposition.

a bold countenance

Implies a brave and fearless appearance.

a contrary disposition

Suggests an inherent tendency to disagree or oppose.

an unyielding front

Highlights the firmness and inflexibility in someone's behavior.

a recalcitrant air

Indicates a stubborn refusal to obey or comply.

an obstinate manner

Conveys a stubborn and unwilling attitude.

a stubborn facade

Implies an outer appearance of resistance that might conceal inner feelings.

FAQs

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

You can use "a defiant expression" to describe someone's facial expression or demeanor when they are resisting authority or showing opposition. For example, "She wore "a defiant expression" as she challenged the CEO's decision."

What are some alternatives to "a defiant expression"?

Alternatives include "a rebellious look", "a challenging gaze", or "an insubordinate attitude" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to show defiance through actions or describe "a defiant expression"?

Showing defiance through actions is generally more impactful. Describing "a defiant expression" can be effective, but it's important to balance description with tangible actions and dialogue that demonstrate the character's resistance.

What does "a defiant expression" imply about a character's personality?

A "defiant expression" suggests the character is strong-willed, resistant to authority, and possibly courageous. It indicates they are not easily intimidated and are willing to challenge the status quo.