deliberate gesture

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deliberate gesture" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action that is intentional and purposeful, often conveying a specific meaning or message. Example: "His nod was a deliberate gesture, signaling his agreement with the proposal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

In many performances, the cellos stress the errant note, as if to make a deliberate gesture of it.

The New Yorker

He designated a caveman mask as "dangerous" and, in a deliberate gesture of civic generosity, a Dick Cheney mask as "neutral".

The New York Times - Science

He walked the short distance from the Elysee Palace to the interior ministry for a briefing on the siege in what seemed to be a deliberate gesture to reassure Parisians that there is no constant terrorist threat.

Independent

A teenage pilot's fatal flight into a downtown skyscraper here was a deliberate gesture of support for Osama bin Laden and the hijackers who brought down the World Trade Center, the city's police chief said today.

The New York Times

So long and so strong is the shadow of Holmes that anyone subsequently creating a detective in any culture has had to make a deliberate gesture of homage or avoidance to the resident of 221B Baker Street.

The Guardian - Books

The terrorists' most obvious targets were the civilians they killed, yet a purportedly fake passport found in one's possession points at a more complex game: Some analysts believe the passport was meant to be found, a deliberate gesture designed to stoke mistreatment of Syrian refugees and of Muslims in general, to "narrow the grayzone," in IS's words, so Muslims cannot live in the West.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

With his deliberate gestures and serious demeanor, he looks like a portly Haile Selassie.

The New Yorker

Xing Yi: Power From the Body's Core No photo montage of China is complete without a sunrise shot of elderly people tracing the deliberate gestures of tai chi in a public park.

The New York Times

The familiarity of the steps — deliberate gestures, I think, to convince drivers that the cars of our future aren't so frightening after all — reinforced the message of the meeting I had just left: the FCX Clarity is ready now.

The New York Times

At the sight of a recent visitor, Mr. Bosket cheerfully nodded and, revealing a small gap between his front teeth, gave a friendly, "Hi, how's it going?" He spoke with the aura of a professor, using deliberate gestures and emphasizing the ends of many words.

The New York Times

Maimane's age, charisma and speaking style - punctured with dramatic pauses and deliberate hand gestures - have drawn comparisons with U.S. President Barack Obama.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "deliberate gesture" when you want to emphasize that an action was intentional and carried out with a specific purpose in mind. It often implies that the action is meant to communicate something or achieve a certain effect.

Common error

Avoid using "deliberate gesture" in very casual or informal situations where simpler terms like "intentional action" or even just "action" would be more appropriate. "Deliberate gesture" carries a sense of formality and purpose that might seem out of place in everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deliberate gesture" functions as a noun phrase where "deliberate" modifies the noun "gesture". Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usage in contexts where intentionality is key.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "deliberate gesture" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe an intentional action meant to convey a specific meaning. While not extremely common, it appears in a variety of contexts, especially in news and media, science, and encyclopedias. Ludwig AI confirms that the expression is mainly used to point out intention. When writing, it's best to use it in formal and serious contexts. Consider using alternatives like "intentional act" or "purposeful action" in other situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intentional act

This alternative replaces "gesture" with "act", focusing on the action performed with intention.

purposeful action

This uses synonyms for both "deliberate" and "gesture", highlighting the intention and the act.

calculated move

Emphasizes the strategic and planned nature of the action.

premeditated step

This suggests a more formal and carefully considered action.

conscious effort

Focuses on the awareness and intention behind the action.

studied mannerism

Highlights a specific, intentional behavior or habit.

strategic maneuver

Implies a tactical or planned action to achieve a specific goal.

thoughtful signal

Replaces "gesture" with "signal", highlighting the communicative intent.

planned demonstration

Suggests a carefully orchestrated display or action.

knowing glance

This is more specific, referring to a deliberate look meant to convey a message.

FAQs

How can I use "deliberate gesture" in a sentence?

You can use "deliberate gesture" to describe an action performed intentionally to convey a specific message, such as, "His refusal to shake hands was a "deliberate gesture" of disapproval."

What are some alternatives to "deliberate gesture"?

Some alternatives include "intentional act", "purposeful action", or "calculated move", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "deliberate gesture" formal or informal?

"Deliberate gesture" leans towards formal usage, suggesting a calculated and meaningful action. It's suitable for news reports, academic papers, and professional communications. Simpler terms may be better suited for casual conversation.

What is the difference between a "deliberate gesture" and an unconscious action?

A "deliberate gesture" is an action performed intentionally, while an unconscious action is done without conscious thought or planning. For example, tapping your foot nervously is an unconscious action, while a politician's handshake is often a "deliberate gesture".