a steely gaze

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a steely gaze" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's intense, unwavering, or determined look, often conveying strength or resolve. Example: "She met his challenge with a steely gaze, unflinching in the face of adversity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Confident, and petite, León has an easy smile, and a steely gaze.

The New Yorker

The next afternoon, Summitt traded her honey glaze for a steely gaze and served Haave a 68-39 defeat.

The New York Times - Sports

She has a steely gaze, and you wonder how she got the keloid scar on her chest.

The New Yorker

Yet with a steely gaze worthy of a superhero, he always bats away questions about his private life by saying he'd prefer not to answer such questions.

Independent

KIEV, Ukraine — The studio lights dim, and the anchor taps a stack of papers on her desk and directs a steely gaze toward the television cameras.

The New York Times

This western, A. O. Scott wrote in The New York Times in September, "shows a square jaw and a steely gaze, but also a smile and a wink".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Underwood, in a suit and tie, looks back at the viewer with a characteristically steely gaze, his right fist resting on his desk, his legs crossed and left foot looming large.

The Guardian - Arts

Drum beats feel like stifled breaths; a near-constant, high-pitched ring and pit-of-the-stomach growl laced through the rattle of her van, as she trawls Glasgow's streets with a deep, steely gaze.

Vice

A woman of steely gaze but hearty laugh, Tarantola spent 41 years at the Bank of Italy after completing a master's degree at the London School of Economics.

The Guardian

He died in 1979, aged only 46, having in his short career cast a clear and steely gaze over the realities of India – its pain, poverty and injustices – in films that brought him acclaim at home and internationally.

The Guardian - Film

Oh, and one other thing: As played by Timothy Olyphant, the steely gaze of a lawman with mortal tendencies is replaced with a courtly manner and a twinkle of mirth in his eye.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a steely gaze" to vividly portray a character's resolve, focus, or lack of emotion. It is particularly effective when describing moments of confrontation, decision-making, or intense scrutiny.

Common error

Avoid using "a steely gaze" excessively. Overusing this phrase can make your writing seem repetitive and melodramatic. Vary your descriptions of facial expressions to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a steely gaze" functions as a descriptive noun phrase. It typically modifies a verb describing an action, such as 'gave', 'fixed', or 'met', adding detail about the manner in which someone is looking. As confirmed by Ludwig, this is an established way to describe someone's look.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

96%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

0%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a steely gaze" is a common and grammatically sound descriptive noun phrase used to portray determination, resolve, or a lack of emotion. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability in written English. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, it conveys an intense, unwavering look. While versatile, overuse should be avoided to prevent melodrama. Alternatives like "an unwavering stare" or "a piercing look" can offer nuanced variations. Ludwig's analysis reveals that the phrase is well-established and readily understood, making it a valuable tool for writers seeking to add depth and impact to their descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

an unwavering stare

Emphasizes the steadiness and lack of hesitation in the look.

a piercing look

Highlights the intensity and penetrative quality of the gaze.

a cold stare

Focuses on the emotionless and detached aspect of the look.

an intense stare

Highlights the high degree of concentration and focus in the gaze.

a determined look

Emphasizes the resolve and purpose behind the gaze.

a hard look

Highlights the stern and unyielding nature of the gaze.

a penetrating gaze

Focuses on the ability of the gaze to see beyond the surface.

an icy glare

Emphasizes the cold and hostile aspect of the gaze.

a resolute expression

Shifts the focus from the eyes to the overall facial expression of determination.

an unflinching gaze

Highlights the steadfast and unwavering nature of the look, suggesting courage or defiance.

FAQs

How to use "a steely gaze" in a sentence?

You can use "a steely gaze" to describe someone's intense, unwavering, or determined look. Example: "She met his challenge with a steely gaze, unflinching in the face of adversity."

What can I say instead of "a steely gaze"?

You can use alternatives like "an unwavering stare", "a piercing look", or "a cold stare" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "a steely gaze" or "a steel gaze"?

"A steely gaze" is the correct and commonly used phrase. "Steel gaze" is less common and may not convey the intended meaning as effectively.

What does "a steely gaze" imply about someone's personality?

"A steely gaze" often implies that someone is determined, focused, unemotional, or even intimidating. It suggests a strong will and a lack of vulnerability.