a dejected countenance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a dejected countenance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's facial expression that shows sadness or disappointment. Example: "After hearing the bad news, she wore a dejected countenance that reflected her inner turmoil."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The second half of the image is a reaction shot of DiCaprio's dejected countenance.

Los Angeles Times

"He died a dejected man".

The Guardian - Travel

I found him in a dejected mood.

Yale University

Two years later, though, Soumah cuts a dejected figure.

The New York Times - Sports

Now there was a dejected silence.

The New Yorker

"Yes," she said, like a dejected child.

The New Yorker

"That's the Bundesliga," said a dejected Guardiola.

The Guardian - Sport

"I'm really shocked," a dejected Hill said afterward.

The New York Times - Sports

"Adams was cutting in," a dejected Lacroix said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Wrong answer," Sean says in a dejected monotone.

The New York Times - Magazine

Macmillan was left a dejected and less resilient figure.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a dejected countenance" to describe someone's visible emotional state, particularly in formal writing or when aiming for a slightly elevated tone. Ensure the context supports the use of this somewhat literary phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "a dejected countenance" in casual or informal settings. It can sound overly dramatic or out of place in everyday conversation. Simpler terms like "sad face" or "disappointed look" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a dejected countenance" functions as a descriptive noun phrase, modifying a subject by attributing to it a specific emotional state reflected in their facial expression. Ludwig examples show its use in describing visible reactions to events.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a dejected countenance" is a grammatically correct but relatively rare phrase used to describe a facial expression reflecting sadness or disappointment. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is more suitable for formal writing or news contexts than casual conversation. While alternatives like "a sorrowful expression" or "a downcast face" exist, the choice depends on the desired level of formality and nuance. It's important to note its limited usage across different contexts, being primarily found in news and media sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sorrowful expression

Focuses on the expression of sorrow rather than a general state of dejection.

a downcast face

Emphasizes the physical appearance of the face as being downcast.

a crestfallen appearance

Highlights the disappointment and lowering of spirits.

a gloomy visage

Uses a more dramatic term, "visage", to describe the face, suggesting a strong sense of gloom.

a dispirited look

Focuses on the lack of spirit or enthusiasm in the look.

a melancholic air

Conveys a general atmosphere of melancholy surrounding the person.

a woebegone aspect

Indicates a state of deep sorrow or misery.

a disappointed demeanor

Focuses on the overall behavior and attitude reflecting disappointment.

a heartbroken mien

Implies a deeper sense of emotional pain and heartbreak.

a despondent expression

Highlights a state of low spirits and loss of hope.

FAQs

How can I use "a dejected countenance" in a sentence?

You can use "a dejected countenance" to describe someone's facial expression that reflects sadness or disappointment. For example, "After hearing the bad news, she wore a dejected countenance that reflected her inner turmoil."

What are some alternatives to "a dejected countenance"?

Some alternatives include "a sorrowful expression", "a downcast face", or "a dispirited look", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a dejected countenance" a common phrase?

"A dejected countenance" is not a very common phrase in everyday speech. It's more likely to be found in formal writing or literature. Ludwig AI indicates that it is correct but relatively rare.

What's the difference between "a dejected countenance" and "a sad face"?

"A dejected countenance" is a more formal and evocative way to describe a sad facial expression. "A sad face" is simpler and more direct. The former suggests a deeper sense of disappointment or despair, while the latter is a general description of sadness.