disapproving stare

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "disapproving stare" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a look that conveys disapproval or criticism towards someone or something. Example: "She shot him a disapproving stare when he arrived late to the meeting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Even his player-friendly predecessor, Joe Torre, might have shot Burnett a disapproving stare or withheld his standard pat on the back.

The New York Times - Sports

"Can you give the coördinates to the Americans so they can bomb her?" Pir laughed and then jumped on the bed until he could feel Ismael's disapproving stare and stopped.

The New Yorker

The hurt and disappointment in my eyes might remind you of your mother's disapproving stare.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Despite all the tensions in the school, I remember a room rocking with laughter, the disapproving stares of the "real" teachers who passed by.

The New York Times

He went to College Park looking for a new start, a place where he could walk around campus without dirty looks and disapproving stares.

The New York Times - Sports

Failure used to connote repo men and leaving town in the dead of night to escape the disapproving stares of neighbors.

The New York Times

Toss a cube his way with a wink and a wave instead of shooting him long disapproving stares that could create conflict later.

WikiHow

The young Japanese civilians taken hostage in Iraq returned home this week, not to the warmth of a yellow-ribbon embrace but to a disapproving nation's cold stare.

The New York Times

And so the action in "Once and for All" often jerks to a sudden halt, as the performers direct watchful, wary stares on the audience, the stand-ins for the disapproving parents and guardians.

The New York Times

Men will stare at your feet with disdain, while women will sniff up their noses in a disapproving air.

Huffington Post

Disapproving elders.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a "disapproving stare", consider specifying what aspects of the stare convey disapproval, such as narrowed eyes or a furrowed brow.

Common error

Avoid using "disapproving stare" excessively in formal reports or academic papers. Opt for more neutral language like "critical assessment" or "negative evaluation" to maintain objectivity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "disapproving stare" functions as a noun phrase, where "disapproving" modifies the noun "stare". Ludwig examples demonstrate its use to describe a non-verbal expression of disapproval or criticism. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

17%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "disapproving stare" is a grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a non-verbal expression of disapproval. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's usable in written English. While relatively rare, it appears primarily in news and media contexts. When writing, consider specifying the characteristics of the "stare" to enhance the vividness of your description. Alternatives like "critical gaze" or "scolding glance" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unapproving gaze

Direct synonym, less commonly used.

disapproving glance

Similar to "stare" but implies a quicker, less sustained look.

critical gaze

Emphasizes the judgmental aspect of the look.

scolding glance

Suggests a mild form of reprimand through a brief look.

chastising look

Indicates a look intended to correct or reprimand.

reproachful look

Highlights the expression of disappointment or blame.

displeased look

Broader than a "stare", encompasses general dissatisfaction.

stern look

Conveys seriousness and disapproval, often from a position of authority.

displeased expression

Focuses on the overall facial expression indicating dissatisfaction.

icy glare

Implies coldness and intense disapproval.

FAQs

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

You can use "disapproving stare" to describe someone's reaction to an action or statement. For example, "She gave him a "disapproving stare" when he interrupted her speech".

What are some alternatives to "disapproving stare"?

Alternatives include "critical gaze", "scolding glance", or "reproachful look", each conveying a slightly different nuance of disapproval.

What does a "disapproving stare" imply?

A "disapproving stare" implies a non-verbal expression of disagreement, criticism, or dissatisfaction. It suggests that the person giving the stare does not approve of something.

Is "disapproving stare" a formal or informal expression?

"Disapproving stare" is generally considered a neutral expression suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives may be preferred in certain academic or professional settings.