Used and loved by millions

Since I tried Ludwig back in 2017, I have been constantly using it in both editing and translation. Ever since, I suggest it to my translators at ProSciEditing.

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

didn't flinch
Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

Alternative expressions(4)

showed no reaction

remained calm

held steady

stood firm

Table of contents

Usage summary

Human-verified examples

Expert writing tips

Linguistic context

Ludwig's wrap-up

Alternative expressions

FAQs

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Ms. Aoki didn't flinch.

News & Media

The New York Times - Arts

Sir Trev didn't flinch.

News & Media

Independent

Again, Bush didn't flinch.

News & Media

The New Yorker

Cher didn't flinch.

News & Media

The New York Times

"The guys didn't flinch.

News & Media

The New York Times - Sports

Rousey didn't flinch.

News & Media

The Guardian - Sport

(She didn't flinch).

News & Media

The New York Times - Style

Mr. Hamlett didn't flinch.

News & Media

The New York Times

Yael didn't flinch.

News & Media

The New York Times

Mr. Bush didn't flinch.

News & Media

The New York Times

"He didn't flinch, that's all.

News & Media

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "didn't flinch" to vividly illustrate a character's stoicism, bravery, or indifference in a narrative. For example, "Despite the loud explosion, she didn't flinch, a testament to her years of training."

Common error

Avoid using "didn't flinch" when describing situations that require a normal, appropriate response. Overusing it can make a character seem unnaturally detached or robotic.

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Source & Trust

89%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Linguistic Context

The phrase "didn't flinch" functions as a predicate in a sentence, describing the action or state of a subject. It indicates a lack of involuntary physical reaction, often implying emotional fortitude or indifference. Ludwig's examples illustrate its use in various narrative and descriptive contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

Science

Academia

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "didn't flinch" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a lack of reaction to something startling, painful, or unexpected. As Ludwig demonstrates, it is frequently found in news and media sources and serves to highlight a character's stoicism or indifference. While there are several alternative phrases that convey a similar meaning, "didn't flinch" provides a specific emphasis on the absence of a physical response. Remember to use it appropriately, avoiding contexts where a lack of reaction would be unnatural.

More alternative expressions(10)

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

didn't react

A more general term indicating a lack of response to a stimulus.

didn't bat an eye

An idiomatic expression meaning to show no surprise or concern.

showed no reaction

Similar to "didn't react", but emphasizes the visible absence of a response.

kept composure

Emphasizes maintaining a controlled and dignified manner.

remained unmoved

This alternative emphasizes a lack of emotional or physical reaction to something.

remained calm

Focuses on maintaining a peaceful and composed demeanor.

didn't budge

Implies a steadfastness and unwillingness to move or change one's position.

held steady

Suggests maintaining composure and balance under pressure.

didn't show any fear

Highlights the absence of fear or apprehension.

stood firm

Highlights resilience and determination in the face of opposition.

FAQs

How can I use "didn't flinch" in a sentence?

You can use "didn't flinch" to describe someone's lack of reaction to something surprising, shocking, or painful. For example, "He "didn't flinch" when the doctor gave him the injection."

What are some alternatives to saying "didn't flinch"?

Alternatives to "didn't flinch" include phrases like "didn't react", "showed no reaction", or "remained unmoved", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to use "didn't flinch" or "did not flinch"?

"Didn't flinch" is a contraction and is generally more common in informal contexts. "Did not flinch" is more formal and can be used in writing where contractions are discouraged. Both are grammatically correct.

What does it mean when someone "doesn't flinch"?

When someone "doesn't flinch", it means they don't show any visible sign of surprise, fear, or pain in response to something unexpected or unpleasant. It implies a level of composure or resilience.

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Table of contents

Usage summary

Human-verified examples

Expert writing tips

Linguistic context

Ludwig's wrap-up

Alternative expressions

FAQs

Source & Trust

89%

Authority and reliability

4.5/5

Expert rating

Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences:

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didn't flinchGrammar usage guide and real-world examples

didn't flinch
Grammar usage guide and real-world examples