expressive

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "expressive" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone's communication or an artwork that conveys a message. For example: "The singer gave an expressive performance that made the crowd cheer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

There is no evidence of the preliminary tentative mark, of the initial hesitant touch of the pencil or crayon that would allow the artist to get his bearings and select the position for the first expressive line.

The Guardian - Arts

Shot in deep, glowing monochrome, with the camera completely still for all but two scenes, Ida is a study in expressive silence and composure.

The Guardian - Film

This Italian team deserves applause for its expressive and complex play".

The Guardian - Sport

As she talks, her flesh-coloured Perspex ring (from Next, she says) catches the light as she pummels, boxes and burrows with expressive hands.

The Guardian

The group were also asked to engage on three occasions in expressive writing for 10 to 15 minutes about a traumatic event.

The Guardian

"German directors like their work expressive, sweaty but authentic.

The Guardian

The early signs were that the expressive and erudite Poyet, fresh from delivering Premier League salvation for Sunderland, was a good early bet for the best newcomer on the punditry couch.

The Guardian - Sport

He has no intention of giving away what he plans to do, other than to say he has "something expressive in mind" if the time comes.

The Guardian

Who is ready to live the moment?" Enrique Krauze, Mexican historian and polemicist, told the press: "He is so authentic, so expressive.

The Guardian - Sport

Leone once said that "music is more expressive than dialogue", and Morricone sometimes wrote his music before the cameras even started rolling.

The Guardian - Music

For example, children regularly partake in sessions of "eurythmy", a form of expressive dance performed in robes to help children develop their spirit in its "new life".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "expressive" to describe something that effectively conveys a feeling or thought. For more technical contexts, consider "articulate" or "eloquent".

Common error

While "expressive" is versatile, avoid overusing it in highly formal or scientific writing. Opt for more precise terms like "descriptive" or "illustrative" where appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The word "expressive" functions primarily as an adjective. According to Ludwig AI, it is used to describe something that effectively conveys thought or feeling. Examples include "expressive silence" or "expressive hands".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Formal & Business

21%

Science

21%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The adjective "expressive" is a common and versatile term used to describe something that effectively conveys thoughts or feelings. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and broad applicability. Analysis reveals that "expressive" appears most frequently in News & Media contexts, followed by Formal & Business, and Science. Related terms include "eloquent", "articulate", and "meaningful", offering nuanced alternatives for different contexts. When using "expressive", it's crucial to ensure it accurately reflects the communication or emotional impact intended, avoiding overuse in highly formal settings where more precise terms might be preferable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

eloquent

Focuses more on the fluency and grace of expression.

articulate

Emphasizes clarity and precision in communication.

meaningful

Highlights the depth and significance conveyed.

revealing

Suggests that something is being uncovered or made known.

vivid

Implies a strong and clear image being created.

demonstrative

Highlights open and unrestrained expression of emotions.

indicative

Points to something as a sign or symptom.

significant

Emphasizes importance and consequence.

telling

Suggests something important is revealed indirectly.

suggestive

Offers a hint or implication without stating directly.

FAQs

How can I use "expressive" in a sentence?

You can use "expressive" to describe something that effectively conveys a feeling or thought. For example, "The painting was highly expressive" or "She has very expressive eyes".

What can I say instead of "expressive"?

You can use alternatives like "eloquent", "articulate", or "meaningful" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "expressive" or "inexpressive"?

"Expressive" means effectively conveying thought or feeling, while "inexpressive" is its antonym, meaning not conveying thought or feeling. The correct choice depends on the intended meaning.

What's the difference between "expressive" and "impressive"?

"Expressive" refers to the ability to convey emotions or thoughts effectively, while "impressive" describes something that evokes admiration or respect. They are not interchangeable.