firm gaze

USAGE SUMMARY

"firm gaze" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is looking at someone or something with an intense, unyielding stare. For example, "The teacher held her student's with a firm gaze."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

A firm gaze, like a firm handshake, might be a minimum.

The New Yorker

It demands that we who act do so with a firm gaze upon the face of the other.

The New York Times

Up close Choque seemed a friendly if stern character, with a firm gaze, a tank-like physique and a knuckle-crunching handshake.

The Guardian

When I arrive, the evening training session has just started and the boxers are working up a sweat under the coach's firm gaze.

The Guardian

Bolt won while slowing in his final four strides in a time of 19.32 seconds, and he crossed the line with his head turned to keep a firm gaze on Blake.

The New York Times - Sports

The Christian doctor whom Nona Màlia married is described as "majestic, bearded, and taciturn"; Rita, a fellow-student, has "her shabby clothes, her firm gaze, her concrete sadness"; Cesare, one of those morally strong, physically vital men who sustain Levi in time of need, is "very ignorant, very innocent, and very civilized".

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

By Pearl Kazin and Geoffrey T. Hellman The New Yorker, August 29 , 1953P. 20 A very young office boy, waiting for the elevator on his last day at work for a big firm, gazed at his final pay check in astonishment.

The New Yorker

The New Yorker, August 29 , 1953P. 20 A very young office boy, waiting for the elevator on his last day at work for a big firm, gazed at his final pay check in astonishment.

The New Yorker

WE are in rented office space at a White Plains law firm, gazing in ambiguous admiration at the upper shelves of Robert L. Shepherd's otherwise bland bookcase where, not books, but his carefully curated cigarette collection is displayed like cellophane-wrapped eye candy.

The New York Times

He has good days when his step is firm and his gaze focused.

The New York Times

McQueen holds our gaze firm.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "firm gaze" to describe a character's strong resolve or unwavering attention in your writing. For example, "Despite the challenges, she maintained a "firm gaze", never losing sight of her goal."

Common error

Avoid using "firm gaze" in contexts where a softer or more empathetic expression is required. It can be misconstrued as aggressive or confrontational if not used judiciously.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "firm gaze" primarily functions as a descriptive element, modifying a subject, typically a person. It describes the manner in which someone is looking at something or someone else. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "firm gaze" is a valid and useful phrase in English, characterized by a neutral register and a communicative purpose of conveying determination and control. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, supported by examples from authoritative sources like The New York Times and The New Yorker. While it's most frequently found in news and media contexts, it's essential to ensure its application aligns with the intended tone and avoids misinterpretation as aggression. Consider alternatives like "steady look" or "determined gaze" depending on your specific needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

steady look

Replaces "gaze" with "look", offering a slightly more general term for directed vision.

intense stare

Substitutes "firm" with "intense" and "gaze" with "stare", emphasizing the intensity of the look.

determined gaze

Replaces "firm" with "determined", highlighting the resolute nature of the look.

resolute stare

Similar to determined gaze, but with a stronger emphasis on unwavering focus.

unwavering look

Focuses on the consistent and steady nature of the look.

piercing gaze

Emphasizes the sharp and penetrating quality of the look.

fixed stare

Highlights the unwavering and unmoving quality of the stare.

direct gaze

Emphasizes the straightforward and unapologetic nature of the look.

focused gaze

Highlights the concentration and intent behind the look.

strong gaze

Uses "strong" to convey the intensity and power behind the look.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "firm gaze" in a sentence?

Use "firm gaze" to describe someone's look when they are determined, serious, or trying to exert control. For example, "The negotiator fixed the CEO with a "firm gaze", conveying the seriousness of the situation."

What are some alternatives to "firm gaze"?

You can use alternatives like "steady look", "intense stare", or "determined gaze" depending on the context.

Is "firm gaze" appropriate in formal writing?

"Firm gaze" is suitable for formal writing, especially when describing a character's demeanor in a professional or serious setting. However, consider the context to ensure it aligns with the tone.

What's the difference between "firm gaze" and "unflinching gaze"?

While both phrases suggest a steady look, "firm gaze" implies determination and control, while "unflinching gaze" suggests resilience and an unwillingness to back down or look away from something difficult or unpleasant.