defiant glance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "defiant glance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a look that expresses resistance or boldness, often in response to authority or disapproval. Example: "She shot him a defiant glance, refusing to back down from her stance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

(Defiant glance).

Independent

Mom's head would hang, her shoulders would hunch, and then, with a defiant glance, she'd stiffen her arms on the seat of the chair, hoist herself upward, grab her walker and walk past Juanita with an aggrieved air.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Gunther photographs her subjects in bold colors and defiant glances, emphasizing their confidence and iconoclasm in the face of their still ignorant surroundings.

Huffington Post

Sitting crossly in an enormous chair, her hair dangles like string over her defiant sidelong glance and her mouth is a terse little maggot of resentment.

The Guardian - Books

At first glance Mr. de Souza would seem an unlikely candidate for the role of the defiant defender of the public interest.

The New York Times

Klein's fast outer movements are full of vibrant rhythms and wild touches that give the piece an almost defiant sound, yet its central slow movement — variations on a plaintive Moravian folk tune — is gritty and brooding, with glancing references to themes from Verdi's Requiem and Mahler's "Kindertotenlieder".

The New York Times - Arts

He was defiant".

The New Yorker

Others remained defiant.

The New Yorker

Zelaya was defiant.

The New Yorker

She became defiant.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Golden Dawn was defiant.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "defiant glance" with descriptive details of the character's posture or other facial expressions to create a more complete and impactful image for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "defiant glance" too frequently, as it can become repetitive and lose its impact. Vary your descriptions of defiant expressions with alternative phrases or focus on the character's internal thoughts and feelings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "defiant glance" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific type of look characterized by resistance or opposition, as shown in Ludwig's examples where it modifies actions or states of being.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "defiant glance" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a look of resistance or opposition. According to Ludwig, it is most commonly found in News & Media. While its frequency is rare, it effectively conveys a character's rebellious attitude and is suitable for both formal and informal writing. When using the phrase, consider varying your descriptions with alternatives like "rebellious stare" or "challenging look" to avoid repetition. Remember to also elaborate on it with descriptive details to create a complete image for the reader.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rebellious stare

Replaces 'glance' with 'stare', implying a more intense and prolonged look of defiance.

challenging look

Substitutes 'defiant' with 'challenging', softening the tone while still conveying opposition.

insubordinate gaze

Replaces both words with synonyms, creating a more formal and negative tone, implying a refusal to obey.

bold stare

Uses 'bold' instead of 'defiant', focusing on the confidence and lack of fear in the look.

resistant look

Replaces 'defiant' with 'resistant', highlighting the opposition aspect of the expression.

unyielding gaze

Emphasizes the determination and refusal to submit conveyed by the look.

brazen glare

Uses 'brazen' to intensify the sense of defiance and replace 'glance' with 'glare', suggesting an angry or aggressive look.

rebellious glimmer

Softens the overall expression by using glimmer, though it could be perceived as a less powerful display of defiance.

determined look

Focuses on the resolution and purpose behind the look, while possibly diminishing the element of active resistance.

contemptuous look

Shifts the focus to disdain or scorn rather than outright defiance.

FAQs

How can I describe a "defiant glance" in more detail?

You can elaborate on a "defiant glance" by adding details about the character's eyes (e.g., "cold", "fiery") or the context of the glance (e.g., "a "defiant glance" in the face of injustice").

What are some synonyms for "defiant glance"?

Alternatives to "defiant glance" include "rebellious stare", "challenging look", or "insubordinate gaze", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "defiant glance" a formal or informal expression?

"Defiant glance" is suitable for both formal and informal writing, although more formal alternatives like "insubordinate gaze" may be preferred in academic or professional contexts.

What emotions can a "defiant glance" express?

A "defiant glance" can express a range of emotions, including anger, resentment, courage, and a refusal to submit to authority or oppression.