a knowing glance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a knowing glance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a look that conveys understanding or shared knowledge between individuals. Example: "As they exchanged a knowing glance, it was clear they were both aware of the secret they shared."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

To Hall, memes are another form of communication; instead of using a knowing glance to let a friend know they're not alone, you may share a meme to achieve the same thing.

Vice

The "we know you're a liar" line was met with gleeful laughter, loud applause, and a knowing glance at the man sitting to her left.

Huffington Post

"Maybe we could do with six hundred and fifty," Reinhardt said, giving Huston a knowing glance.

The New Yorker

"There was a knowing glance, a smile," Mr. Del Russo said.

The New York Times

"Had a bit of bother?" He directs a knowing glance at Jacko, his constant sidekick.

The Guardian

He shot a knowing glance at his spokesman, Rob Stutzman, and quipped, "It's the Austrian-Californian monarchy".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

The conductor and I exchange a silent, knowing glance.

The New York Times

So little as a "hmmmm" in the right accent or his trademark white-man voice to hammer home an argument, followed by a wide-eyed knowing glance back to the audience.

The Guardian

Fellow [insert catchy nickname for your coworkers], It's with a [heavy heart, gentle sad face, knowing glance] that I must share with you my decision to leave [insert name of company].

Huffington Post

But it's that last, tragically knowing glance between Proctor and Elizabeth -- eloquent with the consciousness of a shared future that will never be -- that most fully measures the damage of the nightmare that was Salem in 1692.

The New York Times

Rather, the joke is in exposing people's — maybe even our own (knowing glance) — prejudices against gays.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a knowing glance" to subtly convey shared understanding or unspoken agreement between characters or individuals. It's particularly effective in fiction and narrative writing to add depth without explicit dialogue.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "a knowing glance" as a shorthand for conveying complex emotions or relationships. Vary your descriptions and use other sensory details to create a richer and more nuanced portrayal of your characters' interactions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a knowing glance" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as the object of a verb (e.g., 'exchange', 'share', 'give'). It describes a specific type of non-verbal communication where a look conveys shared understanding or awareness. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase appears correctly and is usable in many contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a knowing glance" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a meaningful look shared between individuals, implying shared understanding or hidden knowledge. Ludwig AI validates its proper usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media. It effectively communicates unspoken accord and can enhance narrative depth. While versatile, overuse should be avoided to maintain descriptive richness. Alternatives like "an understanding look" or "a shared look of understanding" offer similar connotations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an understanding look

Focuses on the comprehension aspect conveyed by the look, rather than the shared secret.

a shared look of understanding

Emphasizes the mutual understanding between two or more individuals.

an exchange of meaningful looks

Highlights the reciprocal aspect of the non-verbal communication.

a conspiratorial wink

Suggests a secret or shared plan, adding an element of intrigue.

a silent acknowledgment

Emphasizes the unspoken agreement or recognition between individuals.

a meaningful expression

Broadens the scope to include any expression that conveys a hidden meaning.

a telling gaze

Highlights the revealing nature of the look, suggesting it betrays inner thoughts.

a significant look

Focuses on the importance or weight of the look.

a knowing smile

Replaces the glance with a smile, conveying knowingness through facial expression.

a knowing nod

Replaces the glance with a nod, conveying acknowledgment or agreement.

FAQs

How can I use "a knowing glance" in a sentence?

You can use "a knowing glance" to describe a silent, meaningful look shared between people who understand something without needing to speak. For example: "They exchanged "a knowing glance", understanding the situation perfectly."

What's a similar expression to "a knowing glance"?

Similar expressions include "an understanding look", "a shared look of understanding", or "a meaningful expression". They all suggest unspoken communication.

What does "a knowing glance" typically imply?

"A knowing glance" typically implies shared knowledge, understanding, or perhaps a secret between two or more people. It's a way to communicate without words.

Is it better to describe the emotion or just say "a knowing glance"?

It depends on the context. Sometimes, simply stating "a knowing glance" is enough to convey the message. Other times, describing the specific emotion or nuance behind the look can add depth and clarity to your writing.