averted gaze

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "averted gaze" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone looking away or avoiding eye contact, often in a context of discomfort or shyness. Example: "She spoke with an averted gaze, unable to meet his eyes as she revealed her feelings."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Silence was preferred; the averted gaze replaced the straight stare.

The Economist

The next day in class, Moran Jr. performed the usual duck-and-hide with averted gaze, to avoid the teacher targeting him with a question.

Stanford University

We have previously shown using fMRI that the amygdala is engaged more strongly by fear with averted gaze during brief exposures.

Harvard University

"Senators!" Burris said, and the two men made the same gestures as the pair in the elevator had: a friendly nod followed by an averted gaze.

The New Yorker

Submissive signals are often the precise opposite in form from a species' aggressive signals and may consist of an averted gaze or a closed mouth.

Encyclopedia Britannica

A grave child of indeterminate sex with a painted mustache and averted gaze holds hands with a masked old woman in a white shift.

The New Yorker

When strangers pass: Processing of mutual and averted gaze in the superior temporal sulcus.

Duke University

The set includes 482 photographs of fearful, angry, happy, sad and neutral child faces with two gaze conditions: direct and averted gaze.

Duke University

Moreover, in the averted gaze condition, half of the newborns were presented with right averted gaze and the other half with left averted gaze.

Plosone

Overall, Chloe performed better when the target exhibited direct than averted gaze.

Plosone

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Both direct- and averted-gaze faces were prepared and used for baseline trials.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "averted gaze" to describe a deliberate act of looking away, often indicating discomfort, submissiveness, or avoidance.

Common error

Avoid assuming that an "averted gaze" always indicates dishonesty or disinterest. Consider the context and cultural norms, as it can also signal respect, shyness, or discomfort.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "averted gaze" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the direction of someone's eyes and conveys a specific meaning related to avoidance or discomfort, as demonstrated in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

36%

News & Media

21%

Academia

19%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "averted gaze" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe the act of looking away or avoiding eye contact. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely used across various contexts, including scientific research, news reporting, and academic writing. Its frequency suggests that it's a valuable term for discussing nonverbal communication and social interactions. While "averted gaze" itself is a neutral expression, its interpretation depends on the context. Alternatives like "avoiding eye contact" or "looking away" offer similar meanings, with subtle differences in emphasis. It's important to consider the possible reasons behind the "averted gaze", rather than immediately assuming negative intentions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

avoiding eye contact

Focuses on the action of not making eye contact, rather than the direction of the gaze itself.

turned-away gaze

Similar to "averted gaze" but uses a slightly different phrasing structure.

looking away

A simple and direct way to describe the action of turning one's eyes away.

avoided glance

Emphasizes the act of intentionally preventing a glance or eye contact.

downcast eyes

Emphasizes the downward direction of the eyes, often implying sadness or humility.

eyes cast down

Focuses on the action of directing the eyes downwards, often suggesting shyness or respect.

glancing away

Implies a quick and brief movement of the eyes away from something.

indirect gaze

Describes a gaze that is not directly focused on the subject, implying a lack of direct engagement.

shifty eyes

Suggests a sense of unease or deception in the way someone looks around.

sideways glance

Implies a quick look to the side, often suggesting suspicion or curiosity.

FAQs

How to use "averted gaze" in a sentence?

You can use "averted gaze" to describe someone who is looking away or avoiding eye contact. For example: "She spoke with an "averted gaze", unable to meet his eyes."

What does "averted gaze" indicate?

An "averted gaze" often suggests discomfort, shyness, submission, or an attempt to avoid a situation. The meaning can vary depending on the context and cultural norms.

What can I say instead of "averted gaze"?

You can use alternatives like "avoiding eye contact", "looking away", or "downcast eyes" depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever appropriate to maintain an "averted gaze"?

Yes, in some cultures or social situations, maintaining an "averted gaze" can be a sign of respect or deference, especially when interacting with someone of higher status or authority.