expression of dismay

USAGE SUMMARY

'expression of dismay' is a grammatically correct phrase that can be used in written English.
You could use it any time you want to express a feeling of disappointment or distress. For example: "The CEO's expression of dismay was clear after the shareholders voted against his proposal."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

He just wants some slight governmental expression of dismay.

The New Yorker

The word also spent time as an interjection, an expression of dismay.

The New York Times

But Tuesday night's round of booing was no claquery; it was a simple expression of dismay at Domingo's lack of attention to his leading lady.

The Guardian - Music

It was also, implicitly, an expression of dismay at the horrors of the kind of modern mechanized slaughter that had gone global in 1914.

The New Yorker

Often a video clip or news event is so absurd that Mr. Stewart says nothing, simply rubs his eyes, does a Carsonesque double take or crinkles his face into an expression of dismay.

The New York Times - Arts

Perhaps a Velvet Revolution is beyond us in the UK, but maybe a Corduroy Expression of Dismay, an Orla Kiely National Strop, a Sports Direct This Was Bound To Happen.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

There were expressions of dismay and disappointment.

The Guardian - Opinion

Cue expressions of "dismay" and "concern", City code for seriously peeved.

The Guardian - Business

Expressions of dismay were voiced by public officials across the country.

The New York Times

The case has sparked expressions of dismay and concern from religious, judicial and medical groups.

The New York Times

Louder verbal expressions of dismay than any of his predecessors have made would be one more.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "expression of dismay" to convey a sense of disappointment or concern, especially when describing a reaction to negative news or events. It's suitable for formal writing and news reports.

Common error

Avoid using "expression of dismay" in casual conversation or informal writing; simpler terms like "disappointment" or "concern" are often more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expression of dismay" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes the act of conveying disappointment or distress, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Academia

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Science

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "expression of dismay" is a grammatically correct phrase that describes a display of disappointment or concern. As Ludwig AI underlines, it's best suited for formal contexts like news reports and professional writing, and is less appropriate for casual conversation. While the phrase is not exceedingly common, when used correctly, it effectively communicates a negative reaction to a particular situation. Remember to avoid overuse in informal settings and consider simpler alternatives like "disappointment" or "concern" when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

voice of dismay

Similar in conveying disapproval, but emphasizes the act of speaking out.

show of disappointment

Focuses on outward display, might be less intense than "dismay".

sign of disapproval

More general, indicating disagreement without necessarily implying distress.

outcry of concern

Implies a more vocal and collective expression of worry.

feeling of unease

Suggests a milder form of discomfort or anxiety.

air of consternation

More formal and suggests bewilderment or alarm.

sense of regret

Focuses on sorrow or remorse about something that has happened.

state of dejection

Implies a lower mood and hopelessness.

moment of despair

Highlights a fleeting instant of intense hopelessness.

wave of indignation

Conveys anger or resentment at perceived unfairness.

FAQs

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

You can use "expression of dismay" to describe someone's reaction to bad news or a disappointing event. For example, "The announcement was met with an expression of dismay from the audience."

What are some synonyms for "expression of dismay"?

Alternatives include "show of disappointment", "voice of dismay", or "sign of disapproval", depending on the specific context.

Is "expression of dismay" formal or informal?

"Expression of dismay" is generally considered a formal phrase, suitable for news reports, academic writing, and other professional contexts. Informal alternatives might be more appropriate in casual conversation.

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

"Expression of dismay" refers to the outward display of disappointment or concern, while "feeling of dismay" describes the internal emotion. One is visible, the other is internal.