blank expression

USAGE SUMMARY

"blank expression" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It refers to a facial expression that shows no emotion and appears empty or devoid of feeling. Example: When the teacher announced a pop quiz, the students all stared back at her with blank expressions, unsure of how to react.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Stella: blank expression.

The Washington Post

The minister responded with a blank expression.

The Guardian - Opinion

A rictus is NOT a blank expression.

The New York Times

Intellectuals may have difficulty assuming a blank expression.

The New York Times

Maybe it was J. R. Smith's blank expression.

The New Yorker

Even his wife struggles to read his blank expression.

The New York Times - Sports

He hid behind sunglasses, a hat and a blank expression.

The Economist

Brent looked up at me from his piano seat with a politely blank expression.

The New York Times

Lagarde affects a blank expression of innocence, and starts to laugh.

The Guardian

Fink offers a quizzical look, a blank expression, and starts to applaud again.

The New York Times - Sports

The lieutenant lay in the dirt, motionless, a blank expression on his face.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "blank expression" to describe a face devoid of emotion or understanding in a neutral or objective way. Avoid using it when you want to convey a specific negative emotion, such as boredom or disinterest, as it may not always accurately reflect the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid assuming that a "blank expression" necessarily indicates a lack of intelligence or understanding. Sometimes, people simply process information differently or are consciously trying to remain neutral.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "blank expression" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig confirms it is correctly used in English. It describes a facial expression devoid of any discernible emotion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "blank expression" is a commonly used and grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a face lacking any discernible emotion or reaction. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is widely accepted in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media, it serves to objectively depict a neutral state. While synonyms like "expressionless face" or "vacant stare" exist, "blank expression" offers a concise and widely understood way to portray a face devoid of emotion without making assumptions about the person's internal state. Understanding its nuances ensures effective and unbiased communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expressionless face

Focuses on the absence of any expression, not just a lack of emotion.

vacant stare

Emphasizes the emptiness and lack of focus in the gaze.

unreadable face

Highlights the inability to discern any emotion or thought.

impassive face

Implies a deliberate suppression of emotion.

deadpan expression

Suggests a deliberately neutral or emotionless demeanor, often used for humorous effect.

wooden face

Conveys a stiff and unnatural lack of expression.

inscrutable face

Implies that the person's thoughts and feelings are impossible to understand.

empty gaze

Focuses solely on the eyes and their lack of expression.

poker face

Implies a deliberate attempt to conceal emotions, often in a game of poker.

neutral expression

Describes a face without any strong emotions displayed.

FAQs

How can I use "blank expression" in a sentence?

You can use "blank expression" to describe someone's face lacking emotion, such as: "He stared at the news with a "blank expression", showing no reaction."

What is a synonym for "blank expression"?

Synonyms include "expressionless face", "vacant stare", or "impassive face", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to describe someone's face as a "blank expression"?

Yes, it is generally acceptable. However, be mindful of the context, as it can sometimes be interpreted as negative if used to imply a lack of intelligence or engagement. Consider alternatives like "neutral expression" if a more positive connotation is desired.

What does a "blank expression" typically indicate?

A "blank expression" usually suggests a lack of visible emotion or reaction. It can indicate shock, confusion, concentration, or even a deliberate attempt to conceal one's feelings. The context is crucial for interpreting the meaning.