face of unease

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "face of unease" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's expression or demeanor that reflects discomfort or anxiety in a particular situation. Example: "As the news unfolded, a face of unease spread across the crowd, signaling their growing concern."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

The success of the internet has been driven by the freedom to experiment, even in the face of unease".

Independent

Brennan has been at the forefront of that strategy, and its public defence in the face of unease about the kill lists, the targeting of citizens and civilian casualties.

The Guardian

E.U. enlargement could stall in the face of unease amongst western states at Europe's center shifting further south or eastwards.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

James Murdoch, 38, has been fighting for his corporate survival, in the face of deep unease among powerful News Corporation investors.

The New York Times

His strong defence of the plans comes after speculation that the government could be preparing to water down the proposals in the face of backbench unease and worries it might not get through the House of Commons.

The Guardian

Second, in the face of deep unease, distrust, and anxiety in this city, we must equally commit with profound dedication to community building.

Huffington Post

Orientalism does not discuss painting, but its critique provided a framework to understand one's own feelings of unease when faced with images of "odalisques" and slave markets and drug-dealers - the same unease evoked by skewed media representations of Arabs (and Muslims) today.

The Guardian - Books

The late 19th century experienced a gathering sense of unease in the face of all the changes brought on by the Industrial Revolution, changes that threatened established ways of life.

The New York Times - Arts

"U-571" begins with Lt. Andy Tyler Matthew McConaugheyy), his face already screwed into a knot of unease, walking into a dance hall, one of the few opportunities Mr. Mostow gets in this film to shoot a big space.

The New York Times

For Mark Carney the real test is to come and is to maximise the powers at the Bank's disposal in the face of possible public and political unease.

The Guardian - Business

We will win this debate," Mr. Ryan said to thunderous applause from the Republican National Convention, making it clear that he and Mr. Romney have no intention of backing off in the face of withering Democratic attacks and unease among some Republican Congressional candidates fearful of a backlash from voters.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "face of unease" to concisely describe someone's expression when they are experiencing worry, anxiety, or discomfort, particularly in response to a specific situation or event.

Common error

Avoid using "face of unease" when a stronger emotion like fear or anger is more appropriate. The phrase is best suited for mild to moderate discomfort or anxiety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "face of unease" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun, typically describing a person or group's expression. This usage aligns with Ludwig AI's analysis, indicating it is a standard and acceptable English construction.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "face of unease" is a grammatically sound phrase used to describe an expression reflecting mild discomfort or anxiety. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and provides examples from reputable news sources. While not exceedingly common, the phrase is appropriate for neutral and descriptive contexts, as the main usage patterns indicate. Alternatives such as "look of anxiety" and "expression of discomfort" offer similar meanings, although "face of unease" subtly emphasizes an underlying emotional state.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expression of discomfort

Focuses on the outward display of being uncomfortable rather than a deeper anxiety.

look of anxiety

Specifically emphasizes the visual manifestation of anxiety.

visage of apprehension

More formal and emphasizes a feeling of impending trouble.

air of disquiet

Describes an atmosphere or feeling surrounding someone, rather than a direct facial expression.

mien of concern

A more literary term for someone's general appearance expressing worry.

aspect of worry

Highlights the worrying aspect, suggesting that someone looks worried.

countenance of discomposure

A formal way of describing a face that shows a lack of composure or calmness.

feeling of unease

Shifts the focus from the face to the internal emotion of unease.

sense of disquiet

Emphasizes an internal disturbance or lack of peace.

state of anxiety

Describes an overall condition of being anxious, not specifically a facial expression.

FAQs

How can I use "face of unease" in a sentence?

You can use "face of unease" to describe someone's expression, for example: "As the news unfolded, a "face of unease" spread across the crowd."

What's a simple alternative to "face of unease"?

A simple alternative is "look of anxiety". It directly refers to the appearance of anxiety on someone's face.

Is it always appropriate to use "face of unease"?

No, "face of unease" is best used for situations involving mild to moderate discomfort. For more intense emotions, consider using words like "fear" or "distress".

What are some formal alternatives to "face of unease"?

Formal alternatives include "visage of apprehension" or "countenance of discomposure", which are more literary and emphasize a lack of calmness.