a faraway expression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a faraway expression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a look or demeanor that suggests someone is lost in thought or distant in their mind, often reflecting a sense of longing or nostalgia. Example: "As she gazed out the window, her face took on a faraway expression, as if she were reminiscing about a time long past."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

You would lean against the lockers with a faraway expression on your face and let people assume whatever they wanted.

The New Yorker

Cross-legged, an eye chart dimly visible on the wall behind him, Thomson sits in a chair casually leaning an elbow on the edge of a table, pensive with a faraway expression.

The New York Times - Arts

A truly calm Robert Downey Jr. is a rare and spooky sight to behold, but on a recent Venice Beach morning, there he was with a faraway expression and a cup of warm tea waiting by his folded hands.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

A glance at the artwork for his third How to Dress Well album, which sees his face set in a glum, faraway expression, reveals as much.

The Guardian - Music

And sometimes …" His eyes take on a faraway look.

The Guardian - Film

He had a faraway look in his eyes.

The New Yorker

Refers to La Belle France with a faraway look in his eyes.

The New Yorker

My ma had a faraway look in her eyes.

Huffington Post

Once Chuck is saved, he appears terminally detached and wears the faraway expression of a man whose traumatic experience has separated him from others.

The New York Times

"I'd sing a song, and I could just see the guys getting this faraway expression," she told the Palm Beach Post of Florida in 2000.

Los Angeles Times

Explaining that my faraway expression was because I was considering how much of a good time I was having he laughed, threw his arm around me and introduced me to all of his crew.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a faraway expression" to subtly convey a character's internal state, particularly when they are lost in thought or reminiscing about the past. It's more evocative than simply stating they are 'thinking'.

Common error

Avoid assuming "a faraway expression" always indicates sadness or longing. It can also reflect contemplation, confusion, or even boredom, depending on the context and character.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "a faraway expression" is as a noun phrase that acts as the object of a verb (e.g., "had a faraway expression") or the subject complement. As evidenced by Ludwig's examples, it describes a visible manifestation of an internal state.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a faraway expression" effectively communicates a state of mental or emotional distance. Ludwig's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and its prevalence in news and media contexts. While alternatives like "a distant gaze" or "a dreamy look" exist, "a faraway expression" distinctly captures the sense of being lost in thought or removed from the present moment. When using this phrase, consider the context to ensure it accurately reflects the character's internal state, avoiding assumptions about the underlying cause of their detachment.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a distant gaze

Focuses on the visual aspect, emphasizing the lack of engagement with the immediate surroundings.

a vacant look

Suggests a lack of awareness or comprehension, implying the person's mind is elsewhere.

a dreamy look

Implies a pleasant, wistful state of mind, often associated with daydreaming.

an absentminded air

Highlights the person's inattentiveness and preoccupation with their thoughts.

a pensive mood

Emphasizes a state of deep and serious thought.

a wistful countenance

Conveys a feeling of longing or regret, often for something unattainable.

an introspective demeanor

Highlights a focus on examining one's own thoughts and feelings.

a detached air

Suggests emotional distance and a lack of involvement.

a preoccupied manner

Emphasizes that the person's attention is fully engaged elsewhere.

a thousand-yard stare

Suggests a trauma, causing the person to appear psychologically distant.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone has "a faraway expression"?

Having "a faraway expression" typically means someone is lost in thought or daydreaming, often appearing detached from their immediate surroundings. It suggests their mind is focused on something distant, either in time or place.

How can I describe a similar emotion to "a faraway expression"?

You could use phrases like "a distant gaze", "a vacant look", or "a dreamy look" to convey similar feelings of detachment or pensiveness.

Is it appropriate to use "a faraway expression" in formal writing?

Yes, "a faraway expression" is suitable for both formal and informal writing. It is a descriptive phrase commonly used in literature and news articles to depict a character's emotional state.

What are some contexts where I might see "a faraway expression" used?

This phrase is often used when describing someone reflecting on past events, contemplating a difficult decision, or imagining a different reality. You might see it in novels, biographies, or even news reports detailing someone's reaction to a significant event.