find expression

USAGE SUMMARY

"find expression" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used when emphasizing the need to communicate or convey one's thoughts, feelings, or opinions. For example: "She tried to find expression for her shock and disbelief at the news."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

Here, unheard voices find expression.

The Guardian - Music

His strange religious ideas were just beginning to find expression.

The New York Times

In contemporary America, myths find expression primarily in film.

University of Pennsylvania

Their own powerful personalities most often find expression in the faces and gestures of others.

The New York Times

It's also very common for a candidate's subconscious worries to find expression on their CV.

The Guardian

Many will find expression in the corrections column, or in this one.

The New York Times

THE worst instincts of "Boston Public" find expression in the teachers it intends to venerate.

The New York Times - Arts

These differences feed resentments that occasionally find expression in far-right violence.

The New York Times

This rationale did not find expression in Liggett Co. v. Baldridge, 278 U.S. 105, 49 S.Ct.

Cornell University

How does mindfulness find expression in practice in the Buddhist cultures of Southeast Asia?

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The grass roots support for a clean and safe environment continues to grow and find expression.

Columbia University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "find expression" when you want to emphasize how something abstract (like an emotion or idea) becomes concrete or noticeable through actions, words, or art. For example, "Grief can often find expression in creative pursuits".

Common error

While "find expression" is versatile, avoid using it repeatedly within a single piece of writing, especially if the contexts are very similar. Vary your language by using synonyms such as "articulate oneself" or "give voice to" to maintain reader engagement and clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "find expression" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe how abstract concepts like emotions, ideas, or intentions become manifest or communicated. Ludwig indicates that it is a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

27%

Science

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "find expression" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig. It serves to describe how abstract concepts such as emotions and ideas become manifest or communicated through various means. Predominantly found in news media, academic writing, and scientific publications, the phrase maintains a neutral to formal tone. When using this phrase, consider varying your language with alternatives like "express oneself" or "give voice to" to avoid repetition.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

express oneself

Emphasizes the act of conveying personal thoughts or feelings.

give voice to

Highlights the act of speaking out or representing something.

find an outlet

Highlights seeking a means to express or release something.

articulate oneself

Focuses on the ability to express oneself clearly and effectively.

verbalize thoughts

Specifically refers to putting thoughts into words.

give vent to

Suggests a release of strong emotions or feelings.

manifest itself

Focuses on the way something becomes apparent or evident.

externalize feelings

Highlights the act of making internal feelings known or visible.

give form to

Emphasizes shaping or structuring something into a tangible form.

give shape to

Similar to 'give form to', but focuses more on influencing the final result.

FAQs

How can I use "find expression" in a sentence?

You can use "find expression" to describe how thoughts, feelings, or ideas are communicated or manifested. For instance, "Her frustration found expression in a strongly worded letter" or "The artist's emotions found expression in his paintings".

What are some alternatives to "find expression"?

Some alternatives include "express oneself", "give voice to", "articulate oneself", or "manifest itself", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "find expression" or "express itself"?

The choice between "find expression" and "express itself" depends on the subject. "Find expression" is often used when an abstract concept (like an emotion) becomes concrete, while "express itself" is used when something inherently has the ability to convey or show itself.

What's the difference between "find expression" and "find an outlet"?

"Find expression" focuses on the act of communicating or manifesting something, whereas "find an outlet" emphasizes seeking a means to release or channel something, like energy or emotion.