bittersweet smile

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bittersweet smile" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a smile that conveys both happiness and sadness, often in a nostalgic or reflective context. Example: "As she looked at the old photographs, a bittersweet smile crossed her face, reminding her of the joyful moments and the friends she had lost."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"Vengeance?" he asked, with a bittersweet smile.

The New York Times

"Life goes on," Shirreffs said with a bittersweet smile.

The New York Times - Sports

As you part ways with Marion, exchange a bittersweet smile that means everything and nothing.

The New Yorker

As the scene appears, a slow, bittersweet smile spread across Mr. Kaminski's face.

The New York Times

"Looks like love," she pronounces in her curdled-cream Georgia drawl, her bittersweet smile hardening.

The New York Times

He looks close to tears, but takes a deep suck of air, then lets a bittersweet smile play across his face.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Childhood ends, this time forever, with tears and howls, swirls of smoke, the shock of mortality and bittersweet smiles in "Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2," the grave, deeply satisfying final movie in the series.

The New York Times

(Dargis) ★ 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2' (PG-13, 2 10) A grave and deeply satisfying end to the landmark series that comes with tears and howls, swirls of smoke, the shock of mortality and bittersweet smiles along with a script by Steve Kloves and direction from David Yates.

The New York Times

(Paul Brunick) ★ 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2' (PG-13, 2 10) A grave and deeply satisfying end to the landmark series that comes with tears and howls, swirls of smoke, the shock of mortality and bittersweet smiles along with a script by Steve Kloves and direction from David Yates.

The New York Times

(Catsoulis) ★ 'Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2' (PG-13, 2 10) A grave and deeply satisfying end to the landmark series that comes with tears and howls, swirls of smoke, the shock of mortality and bittersweet smiles along with a script by Steve Kloves and direction from David Yates.

The New York Times

That's me, pointing to the bathroom and asking the receptionist if I may use the sandbox, me traipsing down the stairs in a fresh set of clothes, my smile bittersweet and drearied with blood, counting the days until I can come back, and return myself to this curious, socialized care.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "bittersweet smile" to convey a complex emotion where happiness and sadness are intertwined, such as remembering a cherished memory that is no longer present.

Common error

Avoid using "bittersweet smile" in situations where the emotion is predominantly happy or sad. Overusing it can make your writing sound melodramatic or insincere. Be mindful of the context and ensure the duality of emotions is genuinely present.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bittersweet smile" functions as a descriptive element, specifically an adjective-noun combination modifying a subject. It describes the quality of the smile, indicating a complex emotional state. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bittersweet smile" is a descriptive term used to portray a complex emotion blending happiness and sadness. As Ludwig AI states, it's grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. While "bittersweet smile" appears most often in News & Media, it's versatile enough for various contexts. Related phrases like "wistful smile" or "melancholy grin" can offer subtle shifts in meaning. When using the phrase, ensure the context truly reflects the dual nature of the emotion to avoid sounding insincere. Overall, "bittersweet smile" is a valuable tool for adding depth and emotional resonance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nostalgic smile

Specifically refers to a smile caused by remembering past experiences.

poignant smile

Highlights the emotional impact and touching nature of the smile.

wistful smile

Implies longing or yearning for something lost or unattainable.

resigned smile

Conveys acceptance of a difficult situation, tinged with sadness.

melancholy grin

Emphasizes sadness more than happiness; grin suggests a broader smile.

sad smile

Focuses on the sadness aspect, lacking the element of sweetness.

tender smile

Highlights affection and gentleness, possibly in a nostalgic way.

rueful grin

Suggests regret or embarrassment along with amusement.

knowing smile

Indicates shared understanding or secret knowledge, potentially with a hint of sadness.

resigned smirk

Implies an ironic or cynical acceptance of something unpleasant.

FAQs

How can I use "bittersweet smile" in a sentence?

You can use "bittersweet smile" to describe a facial expression that reflects a mix of happiness and sadness, often when recalling a memory or facing a difficult situation. For example: "A "bittersweet smile" played on her lips as she remembered her childhood."

What does "bittersweet smile" mean?

A "bittersweet smile" signifies an expression that combines both happiness and sadness. It's often used when recalling memories that are both pleasant and tinged with a sense of loss or regret.

What can I say instead of "bittersweet smile"?

Alternatives to "bittersweet smile" include "wistful smile", "melancholy grin", or "poignant smile", each conveying a slightly different nuance of mixed emotions.

Is it correct to say 'a bittersweet laugh'?

Yes, it is correct to say "a bittersweet laugh". Just like "bittersweet smile", it conveys a similar blend of happiness and sadness expressed through laughter.