avoids eye contact

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "avoids eye contact" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who deliberately does not look at another person, often indicating discomfort, shyness, or dishonesty. Example: "During the interview, she avoided eye contact, making it difficult for the interviewer to gauge her confidence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

Everyone avoids eye contact with Gilroy; one can read the hope on their faces.

The New Yorker

"If we say hello, it's a lot, considering that he avoids eye contact," the neighbor said.

The New York Times

Some of these are too old for her purposes; she avoids eye contact with them.

The New Yorker

Eggers avoids eye contact in public — he walks fast down streets and through stores staring at the ground, jaw clenched.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Tiger avoids eye contact as if he fears interacting with other humans might drain his focus," Adler wrote.

The New Yorker

(Are they drawn to Ms. Falco or Mrs. Soprano?) She used to roam the Village and gawk at intriguing passers-by; now she avoids eye contact.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

Players avoid eye contact.

The New Yorker

She avoided eye contact.

The Guardian

"It was avoiding eye contact.

The New Yorker

Make eye contact, or avoid eye contact.

The Guardian - Opinion

He avoided eye contact with Villas-Boas.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing character behavior in fiction, use "avoids eye contact" to subtly indicate discomfort, deception, or low self-esteem without explicitly stating it. For example, "He fidgeted and "avoids eye contact", a telltale sign of his nervousness."

Common error

Be cautious when interpreting someone who "avoids eye contact" as automatically dishonest. Shyness, cultural norms, or conditions like social anxiety can also cause this behavior. Consider the context and other behavioral cues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "avoids eye contact" functions primarily as a behavioral descriptor, indicating a deliberate action of not looking directly at another person. Ludwig provides examples in which the action signifies shyness, discomfort, or a desire to deceive.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "avoids eye contact" is a versatile behavioral descriptor used across various contexts to indicate shyness, discomfort, deception, or a range of other emotional states. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage, particularly in News & Media. While often neutral in register, it's crucial to avoid hasty interpretations of this behavior, recognizing that cultural and individual factors can significantly influence its meaning. Remember, as demonstrated by Ludwig, context is key to understanding why someone "avoids eye contact".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

doesn't meet one's eyes

A more direct and literal way of stating the avoidance of eye contact.

averts eyes

Focuses on the physical action of turning one's eyes away.

looks away

Simple and straightforward description of looking in another direction.

shies away from looking

Emphasizes reluctance or shyness in making eye contact.

keeps eyes downcast

Describes the act of keeping one's gaze lowered, often indicating humility or discomfort.

dodges gaze

Highlights the active attempt to evade someone's sight.

steers clear of direct looks

Emphasizes the intentionality of avoiding direct visual engagement.

refrains from gazing

Suggests a deliberate holding back from looking directly.

circumvents visual contact

Highlights the strategic avoidance of visual interaction.

turns away

Implies a complete physical turning away to avoid looking.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "avoids eye contact" in a formal context?

In formal settings, you can use phrases like "does not make eye contact" or "refrains from eye contact" to maintain a professional tone.

What does it mean when someone "avoids eye contact"?

Avoiding eye contact can indicate various things, including shyness, discomfort, deception, anxiety, or cultural differences. The specific meaning depends heavily on context and other nonverbal cues.

Is it rude to "avoid eye contact" in conversation?

In many Western cultures, avoiding eye contact can be perceived as rude or dishonest. However, in some cultures, it's a sign of respect. Context and cultural sensitivity are key.

What are some medical or psychological reasons someone might "avoid eye contact"?

Certain conditions, such as autism spectrum disorder, social anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), can cause individuals to avoid eye contact. It's important not to jump to conclusions without proper assessment.