expression of annoyance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expression of annoyance" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it when describing a situation where someone conveys their displeasure or irritation. Example: Her sigh was an obvious expression of annoyance at the constant interruptions. Alternative expressions include "show of irritation" and "display of displeasure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

He privately records Lady Bird Johnson's expression of annoyance at the departure of her husband's most recent mistress: "What does Mary Margaret mean by leaving without breaking in someone to take her place?" The most flagrant dalliances belong, of course, to John F. Kennedy, who is "laying every girl in sight".

The New Yorker

I suspect the DUP's spin doctors won't be overly concerned about TFL's belated expression of annoyance.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

But The Irish Daily Star carried the images on Saturday, eliciting further expressions of annoyance from the duke and duchess, who are currently on a far-flung tour in connection with Queen Elizabeth II's diamond jubilee celebration.

The New York Times

A couple of weeks ago, my wife comes to me with one of her animated expressions of annoyance.

Huffington Post

…these industries when night comes they start working, they emit smoke [expression of annoyance] even when you are sleeping you just have to wake up … to open the door and stand outside; they emit smoke!

BMC Public Health

A lingering look, a brush of the hand, a turn of the head is an expression not merely of annoyance or disapproval but of angst about society as a whole.

The New York Times

Poor behavioral controls: expressions of irritability, annoyance, impatience, threats, aggression, and verbal abuse; inadequate control of anger and temper; acting hastily.

WikiHow

He assumed their odd expressions were those of "annoyance" with his character because of his actions.

Wikipedia

The judge expressed a trace of annoyance at one aspect of the case.

Forbes

Is it really necessary to "give someone the finger" as an expression of the most minor of annoyances?

Huffington Post

Ronaldo's expression as he trudged off at the break was a mixture of annoyance, frustration and disappointment.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "expression of annoyance" when you want to describe a clear and noticeable indication of someone's irritation or displeasure. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, providing a neutral way to convey the sentiment.

Common error

Avoid assuming every slight change in facial expression is an "expression of annoyance". Look for other corroborating signals, such as tone of voice or body language, to confirm the feeling.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expression of annoyance" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the outward manifestation or communication of feeling irritated or displeased. As Ludwig AI shows, it is used to indicate how someone conveys their annoyance.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

33%

Wiki

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "expression of annoyance" is a grammatically sound and neutrally-toned noun phrase used to describe the outward display of irritation. Ludwig AI indicates that it appears across various contexts, including News & Media, Science and Wiki. While not extremely frequent, the phrase is well-supported by authoritative sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. When writing, remember to consider the context and audience to ensure the appropriate level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

manifestation of irritation

Replaces "annoyance" with "irritation" and "expression" with "manifestation", suggesting a more visible or outward display.

display of displeasure

Substitutes "annoyance" with the more formal "displeasure", indicating a more controlled or deliberate expression.

show of vexation

Uses "vexation", which implies a higher degree of frustration than simple annoyance. The word "show" replaces "expression".

outward sign of irritation

Focuses on the visible or perceptible nature of the annoyance through "outward sign".

demonstration of frustration

Emphasizes the active communication of frustration. Using demonstration, implies it's shown clearly.

air of exasperation

Implies a more subtle, atmospheric communication of annoyance, rather than an overt expression.

hint of irritation

Suggests a very mild or subtle indication of annoyance.

evidence of discontent

"Discontent" implies a deeper dissatisfaction than mere annoyance, and "evidence" is more passive than "expression".

resentful grimace

Pinpoints a specific facial expression associated with suppressed annoyance or resentment.

sign of pique

"Pique" suggests a transient feeling of wounded pride or irritation, often less intense than annoyance.

FAQs

How can I use "expression of annoyance" in a sentence?

You can use "expression of annoyance" to describe someone showing they are irritated. For example: "Her sigh was an obvious "expression of annoyance" at the constant interruptions."

What are some alternatives to "expression of annoyance"?

You can use alternatives like "manifestation of irritation", "display of displeasure", or "show of vexation" depending on the context.

Is "expression of annoyance" formal or informal?

"Expression of annoyance" is relatively neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The level of formality also depends on the surrounding words and the situation in general.

What's the difference between "expression of annoyance" and "feeling of annoyance"?

"Expression of annoyance" refers to the outward display of the emotion, while "feeling of annoyance" refers to the internal sensation or emotion itself. You can experience the feeling without showing any expression.