a stern look

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a stern look" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a facial expression that conveys seriousness, disapproval, or authority. Example: "When the students misbehaved, the teacher gave them a stern look that silenced the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

A stern look from Mr. Ely.

The New York Times

He shot me a stern look.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Next question, man," Martin answered with a stern look.

The New York Times

A stern look comes over Pol Pot's face.

The New Yorker

He disciplined his children with a stern look instead of words.

The New York Times - Sports

If anything, when you spoke to him, he would send you a stern look.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

And at a rally of supporters last month in Omaha, a stern looked of disagreement crossed the face of Mary Vinzant, 69, when Mr. Romney told the crowd that Mr. Obama was a "nice guy".

The New York Times

His partner, a stern looking man, flips and chops as Mohamed puts on a technicolored sweater and leans back.

Huffington Post

A dewy-eyed Schmidt and a stern looking Winston sit Nick down for a talk about that scare of his, but soon part ways to join their respective lady friends in their rooms.

Huffington Post

While waiting for the tea tray to arrive, the chef who had prepared the food, a stern looking Japanese man with closely cropped hair and an unmistakably mischievous glint in his eye, did the rounds.

HuffPost

Once I'm through the checkpoint, I arrive in front of a stern looking man seated on a plastic chair who may or may not be in the mood to give me a passport stamp.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a stern look" to subtly convey disapproval or assert authority without using explicit language. It's a nuanced way to communicate negative feedback or maintain order.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "a stern look" as a substitute for direct communication. While effective in some situations, it can become predictable or lose its impact if overused. Balance it with other forms of expression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a stern look" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb (e.g., "gave a stern look") or as a subject complement. Ludwig confirms its proper grammatical structure and widespread use.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Wiki

6%

Huffington Post

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a stern look" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to convey disapproval, authority, or seriousness nonverbally. Analysis of various sources via Ludwig reveals its prevalence in news and media contexts. While "a stern look" is effective, overuse should be avoided. Ludwig offers alternatives like "a severe look" or "a disapproving glance" for nuanced expression. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, writers can effectively incorporate "a stern look" to enrich their narratives and character interactions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a stern gaze

Synonymous, simply replaces "look" with "gaze."

a severe look

Conveys strictness and austerity, intensifying the sense of disapproval.

a harsh look

Conveys severity and lack of warmth, intensifying the sense of disapproval.

a strict look

Focuses on adherence to rules and standards, narrowing the context of disapproval.

a disapproving glance

Focuses specifically on the act of disapproval through a quick look.

a tough look

Implies a hardened or resilient expression, differing in the nuance of endurance.

a firm look

Implies determination and resolve, differing in its emphasis on steadfastness.

a solemn look

Suggests a serious and dignified expression, emphasizing gravity over disapproval.

a strong look

Indicates power and intensity in the gaze, focusing on dominance rather than censure.

a vigorous look

Emphasizes energy and forcefulness in the expression, adding an element of animation.

FAQs

How can I use "a stern look" effectively in writing?

Use "a stern look" to convey disapproval, seriousness, or authority without explicitly stating it. It can add depth to character interactions and create tension in a scene. For example, "The teacher gave the student "a stern look" after he interrupted the class."

What are some alternatives to "a stern look"?

You can use alternatives like "a harsh look", "a severe look", or "a disapproving glance" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "a stern look" in formal writing?

Yes, "a stern look" is appropriate in formal writing, especially when describing character interactions in narratives or case studies. Its neutrality allows for objective portrayal of events.

What does it mean to give someone "a stern look"?

Giving someone "a stern look" means directing a serious or disapproving gaze towards them. It implies that you are unhappy with their actions or behavior, without necessarily saying anything.