a loaded stare

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a loaded stare" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a look that conveys strong emotions or intentions, often implying that there is more meaning behind the gaze than what is immediately visible. Example: "She gave him a loaded stare, making it clear that she was not pleased with his decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Our chat quickly descends into loaded stares and passive-aggressive silences.

The Guardian

One afternoon, he put a loaded shotgun in his mouth and stared down the barrel.

Los Angeles Times

Maybe, as they stare down the barrel of a loaded political shotgun, Congressional Republicans are putting their sworn duty to the Constitution above their own self-interest.

The New York Times

That is a loaded term.

The Economist

That's a loaded question.

The New York Times - Magazine

He had a loaded firearm".

Independent

Not with a loaded field.

The New York Times

I know genre is a loaded word.

The New York Times

Conversely, a loaded X6 can exceed $90,000.

The New York Times

"Terrorism is such a loaded word.

Independent

A.Wow, man, that's a loaded question.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a loaded stare" when you want to convey unspoken tension, strong emotions, or hidden intentions behind a gaze. It suggests more is being communicated than meets the eye.

Common error

Avoid using "a loaded stare" simply to describe an intense look. The phrase implies a deliberate communication or hidden meaning beyond mere intensity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a loaded stare" functions as a noun phrase where "loaded" is an adjective modifying the noun "stare". It describes a particular type of stare characterized by implied meaning or strong emotion. Ludwig AI confirms this usage by showcasing examples from reputable sources.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a loaded stare" is a grammatically sound and evocative way to describe a look that carries more than meets the eye. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it implies unspoken meaning, strong emotions, or hidden intentions. While not exceedingly common, its usage in news and media contexts lends it credibility and suggests a neutral register. When writing, remember that "a loaded stare" isn't simply an intense gaze; it's a visual cue laden with unspoken communication, best used to create tension or convey complex feelings without words.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an intense gaze

Focuses on the intensity of the look, removing the implication of unspoken meaning.

a meaningful look

Highlights the significance behind the stare, but is less forceful.

a piercing gaze

Emphasizes the sharp and penetrating nature of the look.

a significant glance

Implies a brief but important look, potentially more subtle than a stare.

a telling expression

Shifts focus from the eyes to the overall facial expression, conveying information or emotion.

an eloquent look

Suggests the stare is conveying a message as effectively as words.

a weighty gaze

Highlights the importance or seriousness conveyed by the stare.

a pregnant silence

Moves away from the visual aspect to the unspoken tension accompanying the look.

a heavy-hearted look

Suggests that the stare is full of sadness.

a venomous glare

Implies the stare is full of hatred.

FAQs

How can I use "a loaded stare" in a sentence?

You can use "a loaded stare" to describe a look that conveys strong emotions or intentions. For instance, "She gave him a loaded stare, making it clear that she disapproved of his actions."

What does "a loaded stare" imply?

"A loaded stare" suggests that there's more to the look than what's immediately apparent. It implies unspoken communication, strong emotions, or a hidden message behind the gaze.

Which is a better description, "an intense gaze" or "a loaded stare"?

It depends on the context. "An intense gaze" describes the strength of the look, while "a loaded stare" ("a loaded stare") implies unspoken meaning or hidden emotions behind the look.

What are some alternatives to "a loaded stare"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "an intense gaze" ("an intense gaze"), "a meaningful look" ("a meaningful look"), or "a piercing gaze" ("a piercing gaze").