defeated look

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defeated look" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe someone's expression that conveys a sense of loss, disappointment, or resignation. For example: "After hearing the news, she wore a defeated look that spoke volumes." Alternative expressions include "disheartened expression" and "dejected gaze."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Adam sees my defeated look.

The New Yorker

With a defeated look on her face, she says of her work, heavy-handedly, "Everything same same".

The New York Times

This desultory pace is shared by the rest of the cast, including even, on occasion, Mr. Murray, who sometimes has the defeated look of a tennis pro trying to get a rally going with an opponent more suited to croquet.

The New York Times

He died of heart failure at the age of sixty-seven, and Irene Campos was terrified of seeing in her husband's face the defeated look of the old father, resigned always to the worst — that peasant soul, bitter in resignation — dying before his time.

The New Yorker

He had a defeated look on his face and the students grew nervous.

Los Angeles Times

I asked his grandmother where he was and vaguely remember a forlorn, almost defeated look in her eyes.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Clearly her "I'm running to the finish line" metaphor fell on deaf ears as a defeated looking Brooks confessed to Chris Harrison that he just didn't feel anything in his heart for Des.

Huffington Post

But then again, Labour is doomed to defeat, look what happened in 1983!

The Guardian - Opinion

The TV images that have come to define this whole episode – defeated-looking Lehman employees carrying boxes of their belongings through Wall Street – have become objects of satire.

The Guardian - Business

He doesn't land a punch, but as the blows rain down and the bruises well up, he still manages to make defeat look sexy.

The Guardian - Film

If true, that would make his defeat look less embarrassing.But Mr Noda deserves credit, as much as anything, for outshining his rivals in an impassioned 15-minute speech just before voting began.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character's emotional state, use "defeated look" to convey a sense of resignation and loss of hope, particularly after a setback or disappointment.

Common error

While "defeated look" is effective, overuse can diminish its impact. Vary your descriptions with synonyms like "resigned expression" or "disheartened expression" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defeated look" functions as a descriptive noun phrase, characterizing someone's appearance and conveying their emotional state. As Ludwig explains, it's used to depict a sense of resignation, disappointment, or loss.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "defeated look" effectively describes a state of resignation and disappointment, commonly found in news and media contexts. While grammatically correct and relatively frequent, varying your descriptive language can enhance your writing. Ludwig confirms that the expression is well-established and easily understood. Remember to consider synonyms such as "resigned expression" or "disheartened expression" for richer prose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Beaten look

Similar to "defeated look", but may imply physical as well as emotional exhaustion.

Disheartened expression

Highlights a loss of enthusiasm or motivation.

Conquered look

Emphasizes the sense of being overcome or subdued by an external force.

Dejected gaze

Emphasizes sadness and low spirits reflected in the eyes.

Devastated look

Emphasizes the profound shock and grief experienced.

Destroyed look

Suggests a more intense level of emotional damage or devastation.

Resigned expression

Focuses on the acceptance of an undesirable situation.

Downcast eyes

Highlights the physical manifestation of sadness and shame.

Faded look

Indicates a gradual loss of vitality or hope.

Crestfallen appearance

Implies disappointment and a drooping posture or demeanor.

FAQs

How can I describe someone who looks like they've given up?

You could say they have a "defeated look", a "resigned expression", or appear "disheartened". Each conveys a slightly different nuance of giving up.

What's the difference between a "defeated look" and a "frustrated look"?

A "defeated look" suggests resignation and acceptance of loss, whereas a "frustrated look" indicates annoyance and a desire to overcome an obstacle. The former implies giving up, the latter, struggling against something.

Is "defeated look" formal or informal?

"Defeated look" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, though it's more common in descriptive writing than academic papers. It's acceptable for news articles, stories, and general communication.

What are some physical cues that might accompany a "defeated look"?

Physical cues that often accompany a "defeated look" include "downcast eyes", slumped posture, a lack of energy, and a generally subdued demeanor. The face might appear drawn or lacking in expression.