an eyebrow over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an eyebrow over" is not a standard expression in written English and may be confusing without context.
It could be used to indicate surprise or skepticism, often in a figurative sense, but it is not commonly recognized. Example: "When she suggested the idea, I raised an eyebrow over her proposal, questioning its feasibility."

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Swisher raised an eyebrow over the schedule.

The New York Times - Sports

Some conservatives raise an eyebrow over unions' claims that they are outgunned in the money game.

The New York Times

"Did I say 'dalliances'?" he writes, raising an eyebrow over his own breathy prose.

The New York Times - Books

But you can raise an eyebrow over a couple of details.

The Guardian

More established religious charities raise an eyebrow over the evangelical churches' methods.

The New York Times

He is so uptight that he blanches when a colleague raises an eyebrow over his necktie's double Windsor knot.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

A graduate student asked to write a dissertation about Mr. Finley, who, to his credit, has kept an eyebrow arched over his newfound fame.

The New York Times

The "righteous pursuit of a sexy vibe" sounds like it should be purred with an arched eyebrow over dinner-party-volume David Guetta and a naughty bottle of Mr. Grigio.

Vice

The "righteous pursuit of a sexy vibe" sounds like it should be purred with an arched eyebrow over dinner-party-volume David Guetta and a naughty bottle of Mr Grigio.

Vice

Rather, it's something more like complicity (the title of another story): sharing an illicit cigarette or a raised eyebrow over "Lara's Theme" as it "oozed" from the speakers in a Chinese restaurant.

The New York Times - Books

But Hollywood raised a big eyebrow over her latest move.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider replacing "an eyebrow over" with more direct alternatives like "a raised eyebrow" or "skeptical" to enhance clarity, especially in formal writing.

Common error

Avoid frequent use of "an eyebrow over" in formal or academic writing. While acceptable, it can sometimes appear less precise than alternatives like "skeptical" or "questioning". Use it judiciously to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an eyebrow over" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, often used adverbially to modify a verb. It indicates the manner in which an action is performed, implying skepticism, surprise, or disapproval. For instance, the example "Swisher raised an eyebrow over the schedule" from Ludwig suggests that Swisher questioned the schedule with a subtle, non-verbal expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "an eyebrow over" is used to express subtle skepticism, surprise, or disapproval. Though acceptable, it is less common than ""a raised eyebrow"" and may sound less direct. As Ludwig AI points out, it appears frequently in news and media contexts, indicating a neutral register. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly conveys the intended nuance to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives such as "skeptical" or "questioning" may enhance clarity in formal writing. While the phrase is grammatically correct, careful consideration of context is crucial for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a raised eyebrow

Omits the preposition "over", creating a more standard and direct expression of skepticism or surprise.

with a skeptical gaze

Replaces the eyebrow imagery with a more descriptive expression conveying doubt.

expressing doubt

Simplifies the expression to a direct statement of doubt or skepticism.

considering with suspicion

Highlights the act of considering something while also feeling suspicious.

taking a dubious view

Emphasizes the uncertainty and doubt in the viewpoint.

looking askance at

Uses a more idiomatic expression to describe a look of disapproval or distrust.

regarding with reservation

Implies a holding back of full acceptance or approval.

viewing skeptically

Focuses on the act of viewing something from a skeptical perspective.

harboring doubts about

Implies a persistent state of uncertainty and doubt.

questioning the validity of

Directly expresses the act of questioning whether something is true or valid.

FAQs

How can I use "an eyebrow over" in a sentence?

You can use "an eyebrow over" to indicate skepticism or surprise. For example: "She raised "a raised eyebrow" over the claim, showing her doubt."

What does it mean to raise "an eyebrow over" something?

Raising "an eyebrow over" something means expressing mild surprise, skepticism, or disapproval. It's a subtle way of showing doubt or questioning something without directly stating it.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "an eyebrow over"?

Alternatives include ""a raised eyebrow"", "skeptical", or "questioning". The best choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality required.

Is it better to say "a raised eyebrow" or "an eyebrow over"?

"A raised eyebrow" is generally more common and widely accepted. "An eyebrow over" is also acceptable but might sound less direct or more nuanced, depending on the context.