brief smile

USAGE SUMMARY

"brief smile" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it when describing a momentary expression of happiness or amusement. For example, "She gave him a brief smile before turning back to her book."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Literature

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

A brief smile.

The Guardian - Books

Ms. Donovan, usually tightly coiled, allowed herself a brief smile.

The New York Times

But as he talked about finally returning to the Mets, he flashed a brief smile.

The New York Times - Sports

Osborne managed a brief smile before shedding a tear, prompting a mini-Twitter storm.

The Guardian

In conversation, he adopts a no-nonsense mien, occasionally allowing himself a brief smile.

The New Yorker

A brief smile softened the features of the patient's tired, well-lined face.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

After a brief, smiling stare-off, the brothers laugh out loud.

The New York Times

The pair exchanged brief smiles as McGowan was led handcuffed to the cells.

BBC

Don't be eager in conversations, just send that message that you like him, with brief smiles through your eyes and such.

WikiHow

She turns around and flashes a brief, gaptoothed smile.

The New York Times - Magazine

Muhammad, the boy I'd met in the trenches, flashed me a brief, acknowledging smile, then propped his head in his left hand and focused on his book.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "brief smile" to convey a sense of reserve or to suggest that the person's happiness is tempered by other emotions. It adds nuance compared to a simple "smile".

Common error

Avoid using "brief smile" excessively in dialogue descriptions, as it can become repetitive. Instead, vary your descriptions with other facial expressions or actions to keep the writing engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "brief smile" functions as a noun phrase where the adjective "brief" modifies the noun "smile". This combination specifies the duration or intensity of the smile. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatically correct and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Literature

27%

Sports

12%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

4%

Science

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "brief smile" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a fleeting or restrained smile. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and frequency across various contexts. The phrase is particularly prevalent in news, literature, and sports reporting, where precise descriptions of emotional expressions are crucial. While the phrase is considered neutral in register, it's essential to avoid overuse and consider alternative descriptions for variety. Using "brief smile" effectively can add depth to your writing by suggesting a sense of reserve or underlying emotion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fleeting smile

Emphasizes the temporary nature of the smile.

quick smile

Highlights the speed and immediacy of the smile.

passing smile

Suggests the smile is transient and doesn't linger.

small smile

Focuses on the subtle nature of the smile's expression.

slight smile

Indicates a barely perceptible upturn of the lips.

subtle smile

Emphasizes the understated and delicate quality of the smile.

faint smile

Describes a smile that is barely visible.

terse smile

Suggests a concise and somewhat reserved smile.

momentary smile

Highlights the very short duration of the smile.

half-smile

Indicates a smile that is incomplete or not fully expressed.

FAQs

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

You can use "brief smile" to describe a fleeting moment of happiness or amusement, as in "She offered a brief smile before continuing with her explanation."

What are some alternatives to "brief smile"?

Alternatives include "fleeting smile", "quick smile", or "subtle smile", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is "brief smile" formal or informal?

"Brief smile" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, as it's a straightforward and neutral description.

What does a "brief smile" typically suggest?

A "brief smile" often suggests a reserved or momentary expression of happiness, perhaps tinged with sadness, thoughtfulness, or politeness.