expression of relief

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "expression of relief" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a feeling of comfort or alleviation after a stressful or worrying situation has been resolved. Example: "After hearing the good news about her health, she let out a deep sigh, an expression of relief washing over her."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

Rather it was an expression of relief.

The Economist

The power in the shot was an expression of relief.

The Guardian - Sport

"It's damaged!" she said, and I saw an expression of relief spread across her face.

The New Yorker

The statement is as much an expression of relief as a boast.

The New York Times

Afterward, Robinson's face was flushed and he wore an expression of relief.

The New York Times - Sports

Afterward, he flung the ball over the fence in left-center field in an apparent expression of relief.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

It was hard to ignore their expressions of relief.

The New York Times

The decision also drew expressions of relief from Clinton loyalists, who loudly protested the decision not to include Mrs. Clinton on the list of speakers.

The New York Times

Public expressions of relief, following the announcement that no children's bodies are buried beneath the Haut de la Garenne home in Jersey, have been notably restrained.

The Guardian - Opinion

A sixth arrives and is greeted with derisive hoots that are rightly interpreted as expressions of relief and joy.

The New York Times - Sports

The Labor Department's report brought expressions of relief from economists, most of whom had expected the index to show a considerably higher increase.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "expression of relief" to describe a visible or audible manifestation of feeling relieved, such as a sigh, smile, or change in facial expression.

Common error

Avoid using "expression of relief" to simply state that someone is relieved. Instead, focus on describing how that relief is shown outwardly.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "expression of relief" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a discernible manifestation of an internal feeling. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Science

16%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "expression of relief" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe an outward manifestation of feeling relieved. As evidenced by Ludwig AI, it's frequently found in news and media sources, suggesting a neutral register. When using the phrase, focus on the observable signs of relief rather than merely stating that someone is relieved. Alternatives like "sigh of relief" or "feeling of reassurance" can offer slightly different nuances depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sigh of relief

Emphasizes the audible exhalation accompanying the feeling of relief.

feeling of reassurance

Focuses on the internal sensation of being reassured after a period of worry.

alleviation of anxiety

Specifically refers to the reduction of anxious feelings.

wave of relief

Suggests a sudden and overwhelming feeling of relief.

sense of alleviation

Highlights the lessening of burden or distress.

easing of worry

Focuses on the gradual reduction of worry and concern.

release of tension

Highlights the physical and emotional release from stress.

lightening of spirits

Emphasizes the uplifting effect of relief on one's mood.

moment of comfort

Indicates a brief period of ease and contentment following a stressful situation.

burst of hope

Implies a sudden surge of optimism and positive expectation.

FAQs

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

You can use "expression of relief" to describe someone's outward manifestation of feeling relieved. For example, "Her face showed an expression of relief when she heard the good news."

What are some alternatives to "expression of relief"?

Some alternatives include "sigh of relief", "feeling of reassurance", or "sense of alleviation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "expression of relief" or "expressions of relief"?

The choice depends on context. Use "expression of relief" for a singular instance. Use "expressions of relief" when referring to multiple instances or a general sentiment, as in, "The announcement drew expressions of relief from the crowd."

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

"Expression of relief" refers to the outward display of being relieved, while "feeling of relief" describes the internal sensation. You feel relief, and the outward sign of that feeling is an "expression of relief".