a look of consternation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a look of consternation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's facial expression that shows confusion, anxiety, or dismay, often in response to an unexpected situation. Example: "When she heard the news, her face transformed into a look of consternation, leaving everyone in the room silent."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

When asked about Razzano and her backstory, a look of consternation crossed Williams's face.

The New York Times - Sports

He smiled when the Nets scored, but replaced it with a look of consternation when his team's fortunes changed.

The New York Times - Sports

In the first of my two souvenir photos, my brother is frozen behind me, a look of consternation in his eyes.

The New York Times

There was a look of consternation on her face; she looked like she wanted to slap me but couldn't bring herself to do it.

The New Yorker

But the smile that typically adorns his face had become a look of consternation, and the liveliness with which he usually answers questions had given way to moroseness.

The New York Times - Sports

I once had a good friend ask me, "When the bullets started flying, how did you know who you could really trust?" With a look of consternation on my face, I had to stop and think for a second.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Ostensibly, this is a piece of fluff about cat burglary set in the French Riviera, but it is crammed with moments that are resonant, suspenseful or just plain fun, such as a cigarette being extinguished in a fried egg, Grace Kelly wearing the most ridiculous – yet stunning – gold frock, and one of Hitchcock's most delicious cameos, on a bus, giving Cary Grant a look of plump consternation.

The Guardian - Film

And his face is twisted into an expression of consternation that makes him look less like the handsome actor than a fun house dummy being retired to a dusty back room.

Los Angeles Times

With Miami crumbling and looks of consternation appearing on their faces, the Knicks scored 10 straight points in less than 3 minutes to cut a 74-62 deficitoto 74-72 with 4 36 left.

The New York Times - Sports

It causes a lot of consternation and drama in Washington.

The New York Times - Magazine

"There's a lot of consternation here," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a look of consternation" to precisely describe a facial expression indicating confusion, anxiety, or dismay, particularly when someone is faced with an unexpected or negative situation. This phrase adds a nuanced layer to your description, making it more vivid and impactful.

Common error

Avoid using "a look of consternation" in casual or informal settings. It can sound overly formal or stilted. Opt for simpler alternatives like "a confused look" or "a worried expression" to maintain a natural tone in everyday conversations or informal writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a look of consternation" functions as a noun phrase, specifically acting as the subject complement or object of a verb, to describe a facial expression. Ludwig AI validates its correct grammatical structure and usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a look of consternation" is a grammatically sound and descriptive phrase used to portray an expression of confusion, anxiety, or dismay. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While not overly common, it's prevalent in news and media contexts. For more casual settings, consider alternatives like "a confused look". When employing this phrase, ensure it aligns with the formality of your writing, as overuse in informal contexts can sound stilted. Related expressions such as "an expression of bewilderment" or "a face of dismay" offer nuanced alternatives to enhance your descriptive writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an expression of bewilderment

Replaces "look" with "expression" and "consternation" with "bewilderment", focusing on the confused aspect.

a face of dismay

Uses "face" instead of "look" and "dismay" to highlight the feeling of disappointment and distress.

a countenance of anxiety

Substitutes "look" with "countenance" and "consternation" with "anxiety", emphasizing the worried state.

a worried expression

Simplifies the phrase, focusing on the worry conveyed by the expression.

a perplexed gaze

Replaces "look" with "gaze" and "consternation" with "perplexed", highlighting the confusion in the stare.

a troubled visage

Uses more formal vocabulary, replacing "look" with "visage" and "consternation" with "troubled."

a flustered appearance

Focuses on the outward appearance of being agitated or confused.

a disquieted air

Conveys a sense of unease and disturbance.

a disturbed mien

Uses a more archaic word, "mien", to describe the overall appearance of being troubled.

a stunned reaction

Focuses on the initial shock and surprise.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a look of consternation" in a sentence?

Use "a look of consternation" to describe someone's facial expression when they are confused, anxious, or dismayed, typically in response to something unexpected or unpleasant. For example, "When he saw the bill, a look of consternation crossed his face."

What are some alternatives to "a look of consternation"?

Alternatives include "an expression of bewilderment", "a face of dismay", or "a worried expression", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "a look of consternation" appropriate for all types of writing?

While grammatically correct, "a look of consternation" is more suited for formal or descriptive writing. In casual conversation, simpler phrases like "a confused look" might be more appropriate.

What feeling does "a look of consternation" convey?

"A look of consternation" suggests a mix of confusion, anxiety, and dismay. It conveys a stronger sense of unease and bewilderment than a simple "confused look".