a significant look

USAGE SUMMARY

"a significant look" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe a facial expression or gesture that conveys a deep or meaningful message. For example: - She gave him a significant look, urging him to apologize. - His significant look told me that he understood exactly what I was feeling. - The politician's significant look to the audience hinted at a big announcement to come.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Coach, standing in the doorway behind Joyce, gave Patty a significant look.

The New Yorker

This report provides a significant look at the magnitude of Medicare beneficiaries' out-of-pocket spending.

The Washington Post

ROMANER (regaining his calm and throwing Preminger a significant look in the mirror): Whatever will be will be.

The New Yorker

After exchanging a significant look with the boy on the day of Tadzio's scheduled departure, Aschenbach dies of cholera.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Khan gave me a significant look, and, as he went on, it became clear that he was referring to the United States.

The New Yorker

But I know that these things are being said and done for politics or for the benefit of someone". Khan gave me a significant look, and, as he went on, it became clear that he was referring to the United States.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"Hopefully he'll make the most of it, or someone will see something in him that will encourage them to give him a more significant look".

The New York Times - Sports

The second significant look was a succession of ballgowns in mint, coral and sky blue, sculpted from duchess satin and metallic organza, which in a nod to the new sexed-up minimalism were chopped short at the hip to reveal a pair of simple black wool shorts underneath.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But this is really an exception; significant looks and pregnant pauses are more the rule.

Los Angeles Times

Even as people with H.I.V. are living longer than ever, a significant number look deathly ill because of a condition called lipodystrophy -- a disruption in the body's methods of processing and distributing fat.

The New York Times - Health

" Audit I am sure does improve systems, does raise the standards of personal practice but maybe not as, not as imminently as looking at a significant event or looking at yourself doing a consultation.

BMC Medical Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a significant look" when you want to emphasize the importance of a non-verbal cue in conveying meaning or intent.

Common error

Avoid assuming you understand the meaning of "a significant look" without considering the context and the relationship between the individuals involved. Misinterpretation can lead to misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a significant look" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific type of visual expression that carries substantial meaning beyond the literal act of seeing. Ludwig AI confirms that it's a usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Encyclopedias

14%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Science

14%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a significant look" is a valid and meaningful English phrase used to describe a loaded or meaningful visual expression. Ludwig AI confirms that it is usable in writing. While grammatically straightforward as a noun phrase, its power lies in its ability to convey unspoken messages and emotions. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, it maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse contexts. When using this phrase, be mindful of potential misinterpretations and ensure the context supports the intended meaning. Consider using alternatives like ""a meaningful glance"" or "a telling expression" to add nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a meaningful glance

Replaces "look" with "glance", suggesting a brief but meaningful visual expression.

a telling expression

Focuses on the expressive quality of the look, highlighting its communicative aspect.

an eloquent gaze

Emphasizes the powerful and expressive nature of the gaze.

a loaded stare

Indicates a look filled with unspoken meaning or emotion.

a knowing glance

Suggests a shared understanding or secret conveyed through the look.

an expressive look

Highlights the ability of the look to communicate feelings or intentions.

a pregnant look

Conveys a look that is full of unspoken meaning and anticipation.

a pointed gaze

Implies a deliberate and purposeful look directed at someone or something.

a revealing glance

Suggests that the look unveils something previously hidden or unknown.

an insightful observation

Shifts the focus from the act of looking to the understanding gained from it.

FAQs

How can I use "a significant look" in a sentence?

You can use "a significant look" to describe a meaningful facial expression. For example, "She gave him "a significant look", warning him to be careful."

What's the difference between "a significant look" and "a meaningful glance"?

While both convey a sense of importance, "a significant look" implies a more sustained and deliberate gaze, while "a meaningful glance" suggests a briefer, quicker expression. You can consider "a meaningful glance" as a substitute to "a significant look".

What can I say instead of "a significant look"?

You can use alternatives like "a telling expression", "a knowing glance", or "an eloquent gaze depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "a significant look" formal or informal?

"A significant look" is generally neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation and the surrounding language.