bashful face

USAGE SUMMARY

'bashful face' is correct and can be used in written English.
For example, you might write, "She blushed and looked away, her bashful face revealing her embarrassment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

There is no word for "bashful face with pinkening cheeks that obliquely suggest I'm both embarrassed and pleased".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

As a bashful expression crossed his face, Mr. Guadagnino said he was not flattered by this.

The New York Times - Arts

Their son, Edward, my grandfather, sat in a small chair in front of Mollie, wearing trousers, a button-down shirt, a bow tie, and a bashful look on his face compared to his father's self-assured, stoic one.

Huffington Post

Her hair had been long and wavy and brown then, natural in curl and color, as he liked it, and her face bashful and soft — a reflection less of the way she was than of the way he wanted to see her.

The New Yorker

Shame-faced, bashful, insolent, chaste, luxurious, peevish, prattling, silent, fond, doting, laborious, nice, delicate, ingenious, slow, dull, forward, humorous, debonair, wise, ignorant, false in words, true speaking, both liberal, covetous, and prodigal.

The New Yorker

De Niro is his trademark bashful offscreen self, his face obscured by a flat cap.

Independent

Adding in a few clues/tasks that may leave her red faced or bashful is fine but avoid going overboard such as obsessive drinking or worse, cheating on her future spouse.

WikiHow

He is about 6' tall, with a handsome face--hazel eyes, bashful smile, and wavy brown hair--and a tremendous body, which a prison doctor once estimated at 550 pounds.

The New Yorker

That cocky game face dropped, and he was bashful, almost apologetic, when Gordon thanked him for the $100,000 floor he is donating to his alma mater's gym.

The New York Times - Magazine

Moroccan, on the other hand, seems to be a bit bashful, hiding his too-cute-for-words face in his hands as his sister struts her stuff.

Huffington Post

Irad brushes his face and slumps in his chair, bashful and moved by his brother's praise, as if it were unexpected.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bashful face" to describe someone who is noticeably shy or embarrassed, particularly in situations that might cause them discomfort. It is appropriate for describing fleeting moments of shyness.

Common error

Avoid using "bashful face" as a generic description. It indicates a temporary emotional state, not a permanent feature. Use adjectives like 'handsome' or 'pretty' for general appearance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bashful face" primarily functions as a descriptive noun phrase. It characterizes a facial expression indicating shyness, modesty, or embarrassment. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is considered correct and suitable for written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Academia

12%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bashful face" is a grammatically sound and contextually rich expression used to describe someone exhibiting shyness or embarrassment through their facial expression. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in written English. While relatively rare, its use is most prominent in news and media. When employing this phrase, consider the specific emotional nuance you wish to convey, as related terms like "coy expression" or "sheepish look" may offer a slightly different shade of meaning. Ensure its use indicates a temporary state, rather than a permanent characteristic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bashful gaze

Specifies the direction of the eyes, adding a layer of detail regarding shyness.

embarrassed expression

Highlights the feeling of embarrassment as the cause of the facial expression.

coy expression

Shifts focus from the face to the overall expression, suggesting a playful shyness.

sheepish look

Suggests a slightly guilty or foolish shyness.

timid countenance

Uses more formal vocabulary to describe a shy and reserved facial appearance.

shy demeanor

Moves away from the face to describe the overall behavior and mannerisms of a shy person.

modest appearance

Focuses on an understated and unassuming presentation, rather than a direct expression of shyness.

reserved manner

Highlights the controlled and restrained behavior of a shy person.

retiring disposition

Emphasizes the inclination to withdraw from social interaction.

unassuming presence

Focuses on a lack of pretense or arrogance, suggesting a quiet and humble nature.

FAQs

How can I describe a "bashful face" in more detail?

You can add descriptive words to enhance the imagery, such as "a slightly flushed, "bashful face"" or "a downcast, "bashful face"". Consider including details about the person's eyes or posture to add depth.

What are some situations where describing someone as having a "bashful face" would be appropriate?

This description works well when someone receives a compliment, is caught doing something slightly embarrassing, or is in a situation that makes them feel self-conscious. It portrays a gentle, endearing form of shyness.

Is there a difference between a "bashful face" and a "shy face"?

While similar, a "bashful face" suggests a more specific and temporary state of embarrassment or coyness. A "shy face" might imply a more inherent and constant trait. The context determines the best choice.

What are some alternative phrases to "bashful face" that still convey shyness?

Consider using phrases like "coy expression", "embarrassed expression", or "sheepish look" to express shyness in slightly different ways. The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.