a few eyebrows

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a few eyebrows" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a reaction of surprise or disapproval, often in response to something unexpected or controversial. Example: "The new policy raised a few eyebrows among the employees, who were concerned about its implications."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That raised a few eyebrows.

Independent

The reformists' preferences raised a few eyebrows.

The Guardian

"We knew this would raise a few eyebrows," he said.

The New York Times

(Either way, the gown raised a few eyebrows.

The New Yorker

But the choice may raise a few eyebrows.

The Economist

A few eyebrows were raised last year over Mr. Jewison.

The New York Times

Unsurprisingly, Sumption's remarks have raised a few eyebrows.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

When Labrinth signed with Syco it raised a few eyebrows.

The Guardian - Music

Needless to say, a few eyebrows were raised.

The Guardian - Sport

Such statements have raised a few eyebrows across many of Europe's technology hubs.

The New York Times

But their other finding is likely to raise a few eyebrows.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a few eyebrows" to subtly indicate surprise or mild disapproval, rather than explicitly stating disagreement or shock. It adds nuance to your writing.

Common error

While "a few eyebrows" is widely understood, avoid using it excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more direct expressions of skepticism or concern in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a few eyebrows" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the object of a verb, such as "raise" or "cause". It denotes a reaction of surprise, skepticism, or mild disapproval. Ludwig AI shows this phrase frequently used in sentences where an action or decision leads to such reactions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

8%

Science

7%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a few eyebrows" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate surprise, skepticism, or mild disapproval. Ludwig AI validates its acceptability and wide usage, particularly in News & Media. While generally versatile, it's best to avoid overuse in highly formal contexts where more direct language may be appropriate. Alternative phrases such as "some surprise" or "mild disapproval" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

some raised eyebrows

Emphasizes the action of raising eyebrows rather than the quantity. It's very similar in meaning.

some surprise

Focuses on the feeling of astonishment, omitting the physical expression.

mild disapproval

Highlights the sentiment of disagreement or objection, without the visual aspect.

slight skepticism

Indicates a degree of doubt or questioning, removing the element of surprise.

raised some questions

Focuses on the act of questioning, suggesting further inquiry or doubt.

caused concern

Emphasizes the feeling of worry or unease, broadening the emotional impact.

met with disbelief

Highlights the lack of acceptance or trust, rather than just surprise.

generated doubt

Focuses on the creation of uncertainty or skepticism.

provoked astonishment

Stresses the feeling of great surprise or amazement.

invited scrutiny

Highlights the act of close examination or investigation, suggesting potential issues.

FAQs

How can I use "a few eyebrows" in a sentence?

You can use "a few eyebrows" to indicate that something caused surprise or mild disapproval. For example, "The company's new policy raised "a few eyebrows" among employees."

What can I say instead of "a few eyebrows"?

Alternatives include "some surprise", "mild disapproval", or "slight skepticism" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "a few eyebrows" in professional writing?

While "a few eyebrows" is generally acceptable, it might be better to opt for more formal language in highly professional contexts, such as "caused concern" or "generated doubt".

What does it mean when something "raises a few eyebrows"?

It means that something caused surprise, skepticism, or mild disapproval. It suggests that the action or statement was unexpected or controversial to some degree.