expression of displeasure

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expression of displeasure" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a statement or gesture that conveys dissatisfaction or annoyance about something. Example: "Her expression of displeasure was evident when she received the news about the delay."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

What form would that expression of displeasure take?

The New Yorker

The pope mixed praise with a diplomatically worded but unmistakable expression of displeasure with the war and its aftermath.

The New York Times

Still, at some point, doesn't loud booing cross the line from an expression of displeasure to a disruption of the performance?

The New York Times - Arts

As they did this, all three of us remained silent and expressionless, but we exchanged glances; I sensed that they were examining me for an expression of displeasure.

The New Yorker

James Gale plays Christy's father, the survivor of his son's attack and the exposer of his folly, with a bloody handkerchief around his head, a perpetual expression of displeasure and the unrelentingly loud growl of a distressed bear.

The New York Times

In the theatre, curtain calls offer more scope for a full-lunged expression of displeasure, though the rarity of appearances by directors and writers mean you risk misdirecting your scorn.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Mr. Morozov thinks that there may be a hint of a silver lining in recent expressions of displeasure over tech executives' behavior.

The New York Times - Tech

Even as negotiations toward a resolution continued, a parade of Senate Democrats kept up vigorous expressions of displeasure with Mr. Bunning.

The New York Times

But other than protests, petitions and other expressions of displeasure, there is little to stop Walgreens, which plans to open early next year.

The New York Times

As chief executive, Mr. Reilly became embroiled in a brouhaha in 1996 when the company fired Kurt Andersen, the editor of New York magazine, a K-III property since 1991, after expressions of displeasure at some of the magazine's articles on the part of Henry Kravis, a partner in the ownership group.

The New York Times

Europeans have been frustrated that their frequent expressions of displeasure over the Israeli settlements have been scorned by Israel, and they have been confused by the incompatible commitments of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to maintaining a Jewish democratic state while expanding settlements and entrenching the occupation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a formal situation, use "expression of displeasure" to maintain a professional tone. For example, in a business meeting, "The CEO's expression of displeasure was evident during the presentation."

Common error

Avoid using "expression of displeasure" in casual conversations. Simpler alternatives like "He was unhappy" or "She didn't like it" are more appropriate for informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expression of displeasure" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes the act or manner in which someone conveys their dissatisfaction or annoyance. Ludwig AI's examples confirm its usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "expression of displeasure" is a grammatically sound and frequently used term for describing the communication of dissatisfaction or annoyance. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's appropriate for neutral to formal contexts, such as news reports, professional communications and scientific discussions. When aiming for simpler or informal contexts, consider alternatives like "show of disapproval" or "sign of dissatisfaction". While "expression of displeasure" effectively communicates the sentiment, ensure its formality aligns with the context to avoid sounding out of place.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

show of disapproval

Focuses on the act of demonstrating disapproval.

sign of dissatisfaction

Highlights the indication or signal of being unsatisfied.

demonstration of discontent

Emphasizes the act of outwardly displaying a lack of contentment.

manifestation of annoyance

Focuses on how annoyance becomes apparent or visible.

indication of vexation

Highlights the sign or signal of being vexed or irritated.

gesture of resentment

Focuses on a specific action that communicates feelings of resentment.

outward disapproval

Highlights an overt or public display of disapproval.

visible annoyance

Focuses on the clear and apparent nature of the annoyance.

obvious dissatisfaction

Emphasizes the clear and undeniable nature of the dissatisfaction.

noticeable discontent

Highlights that the discontent is easily observed or recognized.

FAQs

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

You can use "expression of displeasure" to describe how someone shows their dissatisfaction or annoyance. For example, "Her "expression of displeasure" was clear when she saw the results".

What are some alternatives to "expression of displeasure"?

Alternatives include "show of disapproval", "sign of dissatisfaction", or "demonstration of discontent", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "expression of displeasure" or "expressions of displeasure"?

Use "expression of displeasure" for a singular instance and "expressions of displeasure" for multiple instances or a general sentiment.

What's the difference between "expression of displeasure" and "note of displeasure"?

"Expression of displeasure" is a general term for showing dissatisfaction, while "note of displeasure" specifically refers to a written or verbal communication indicating dissatisfaction.