disapproving glance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "disapproving glance" is correct and commonly used in written English.
It is often used to describe a look or expression that conveys disapproval or disfavor. Example: When I wore my ripped jeans to work, my boss gave me a disapproving glance and shook her head disapprovingly.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

On the other hand, what if the big joke is that God has nothing to do with any of this, and doesn't care about it at all?" Pausing at a stop sign or to let some people cross the street, Mr. Auslander did draw an occasional disapproving glance.

The New York Times - Books

She gives me a cold, disapproving glance.

Vice

Sure, we receive the occasional disapproving glance, but we find most people to be respectful.

Huffington Post

He shot me another disapproving glance, and I was instantly teleported back to the tween bedroom in which I had spent many hours in idolatry, pretending to be Dr May with a red plastic child's guitar and a head full of the "Friends Will Be Friends" video.

Vice

Then he squinted and gave the map a disapproving glance.

The New Yorker

And not once was there a disapproving glance at the bride-to-be for marrying an incarcerated man.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

My black jeans draw disapproving glances from men who seem to be modelling the Johnny Carson collection.

The New Yorker

A young couple, seventeen or eighteen at most, cast disapproving glances at Teacher Fei from another computer, seemingly alarmed by his vehement treatment of the keyboard.

The New Yorker

Here the university sector is lagging behind: we don't yet charge a "vig" – an extortionate weekly interest payment – but we have the moral equivalent: disapproving glances over the meeting table.

The Guardian

Despite his soap-opera life, or perhaps in part because of it, Sanford was greeted warmly by many of the people he met, and got disapproving glances from a few.

Huffington Post

The remark is met with disapproving glances.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "disapproving glance" to succinctly convey a negative reaction without resorting to lengthy descriptions. It's particularly effective in narrative writing to show character dynamics.

Common error

Avoid using "disapproving glance" when the intention is simply to describe someone looking or staring without any implicit or explicit judgement. The phrase inherently carries a sense of disapproval.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "disapproving glance" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the object of a verb (e.g., 'received a "disapproving glance"') or the subject complement. Ludwig AI indicates that it is commonly used to describe a look conveying disfavor.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "disapproving glance" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a look that conveys disapproval. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage. While not overly formal, it is frequently found in news and media contexts. Related phrases include "critical look" and "stern look", offering alternative ways to express similar sentiments. The key is to use it when you want to succinctly convey a negative reaction through non-verbal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reproving stare

This suggests a formal and serious expression of disapproval, carrying a heavier weight than a simple glance.

reproachful gaze

This implies a gentle expression of disapproval, often suggesting disappointment rather than anger.

stern look

This focuses on the severity and seriousness of the expression, highlighting the intention to enforce discipline or adherence to rules.

scolding gaze

This implies a stronger sense of reprimand, often associated with authority or a parental figure.

displeased expression

This describes the general appearance of unhappiness or dissatisfaction, which may or may not be directed at a specific person or action.

judgemental stare

This emphasizes the act of judging and evaluating, which might not always indicate disapproval.

critical look

This suggests a more analytical and potentially judgmental observation, lacking the emotional negativity implied by "disapproving glance".

negative look

This is a more generic expression of negativity, encompassing a broader range of emotions than just disapproval.

unfavorable observation

This shifts the focus from the visual expression to the underlying judgment, making it more detached and intellectual.

cold stare

This conveys a lack of warmth and potentially hostility, but doesn't necessarily imply disapproval.

FAQs

How can I use "disapproving glance" in a sentence?

You can use "disapproving glance" to describe a look that conveys disapproval or censure, for example: "Her "disapproving glance" made him regret his decision immediately".

What are some synonyms for "disapproving glance"?

Alternatives to "disapproving glance" include "critical look", "reproving stare", or "stern look", each carrying slightly different nuances of disapproval.

Is it always appropriate to use "disapproving glance" in formal writing?

While "disapproving glance" is generally acceptable, consider the tone and context. In highly formal or academic writing, more descriptive or nuanced language might be preferred to convey the same meaning without being overly colloquial.

What's the difference between "disapproving glance" and "angry glare"?

A "disapproving glance" implies a subtle expression of disagreement or censure, while an "angry glare" suggests intense anger or hostility. The former is more restrained than the latter.