a frown

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a frown" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a facial expression that indicates displeasure, disapproval, or concentration. Example: "When she heard the news, a frown appeared on her face, signaling her disappointment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A frown.

The New York Times

A frown, a shrug.

The New York Times

A frown creased Anish's face.

The New York Times

What a frown on him!

The Guardian - Sport

A frown is worth $10.

The New York Times

But a frown crosses his face.

Princeton University

Barrett's lips pressed into a frown.

The New Yorker

But she hung up with a frown.

The New Yorker

"I didn't vote for you," Roger said, with a frown.

The New Yorker

In fact, she had a frown on her face.

The New York Times

His reddened face was filled with a frown.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a frown" to subtly indicate negative emotions or disapproval in your writing. It's effective for showing a character's inner feelings without explicitly stating them.

Common error

Avoid repeatedly using "a frown" to describe someone's reaction. Vary your descriptions with synonyms like "a scowl", "a grimace", or by describing other non-verbal cues to keep your writing engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a frown" primarily functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As Ludwig AI indicates, it describes a facial expression reflecting emotions like displeasure or concentration.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

14%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a frown" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a facial expression indicating displeasure, worry, or concentration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts and sources. While "a frown" is generally neutral in register, it's important to consider the specific emotional nuance you want to convey, perhaps substituting it with synonyms like ""a scowl"" or ""a grimace"" for stronger emotions. Remember to avoid overusing the phrase and vary your descriptions to keep your writing engaging.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a scowl

Implies a more intense and angry expression than a simple frown.

a grimace

Suggests a contorted facial expression indicating pain or disgust.

a furrowed brow

Focuses on the action of the eyebrows, implying worry or concentration.

a disapproving look

Highlights the communication of disapproval through facial expression.

a displeased expression

A general term indicating unhappiness or dissatisfaction.

a pout

Suggests childish displeasure or sulkiness.

a downcast face

Emphasizes the overall sad or dejected appearance.

a sulky look

Similar to a pout, implying resentment or unwillingness.

a sombre expression

Indicates seriousness and sadness.

a worried countenance

Highlights concern and anxiety in the facial appearance.

FAQs

How can I use "a frown" in a sentence?

You can use "a frown" to describe someone's facial expression indicating displeasure, disapproval, or concentration. For example, "A frown appeared on his face when he heard the bad news."

What are some alternatives to "a frown"?

Alternatives to "a frown" include "a scowl", "a grimace", or "a furrowed brow", depending on the specific emotion you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "he frowned" instead of "he had a frown"?

Yes, "he frowned" is a grammatically correct and more concise way to express the same idea. "He had "a frown"" is also correct, but less direct.

What's the difference between "a frown" and "a scowl"?

"A frown" generally indicates mild displeasure or concentration, while ""a scowl"" suggests a more intense and angry expression.