fixed gaze

USAGE SUMMARY

'fixed gaze' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that someone is looking at something with determination or focus. For example, "The audience was mesmerized as they watched the performer, his fixed gaze never leaving them for a moment."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

For some, this involved intuition; others noted signs such as a head down stance, lethargic manner, fixed gaze or lack of eye contact.

BMC Family Practice

Difficulty in keeping a fixed gaze during the gaze stability test was a regular occurrence in the patient group and was a criterion for a positive rating.

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Their fixed gazes were an indication of just how extraordinary this moment was for the Senate, and the nation.

The Guardian

The following year, Stalin's terror fixed its gaze on Meyerhold and he abandoned the project.

The New York Times - Arts

Murphy fixed his gaze on the windows along the far wall.

The New Yorker

As I fumbled with my phone, a store manager fixed a gaze on me, arms crossed.

The New York Times - Tech

Once he had fixed his gaze on her, he never lifted it.

The New Yorker

The bouncer, Stephen Sakai, 32, fixed his gaze on the middle distance.

The New York Times

"She isn't sitting with a fixed, adoring gaze," Axelrod said.

The New York Times

He fixed his gaze and added, "It would have benefitted both India and Pakistan".

The New Yorker

In one recent episode, he fixed his gaze on a neighbor.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the emotional connotations: A "fixed gaze" can convey determination, obsession, or even a lack of awareness of surroundings. Choose this phrase when you want to emphasize the intensity of the visual attention.

Common error

Avoid using "fixed gaze" when you simply mean someone is looking at something normally. This phrase carries an implication of intensity or unusual focus, so ensure it matches the context. "Looking at" or "watching" may be more appropriate in neutral situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fixed gaze" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "fixed" acts as an adjective modifying the noun "gaze". It describes a specific type of visual attention, emphasizing its immobility and focus. Ludwig indicates the phrase is correct and usable in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "fixed gaze" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a steady, unwavering look often associated with intense focus or concentration. Ludwig confirms its validity and usability in English. Although its usage is relatively rare, it appears across diverse contexts like News & Media and Science. When writing, use "fixed gaze" to emphasize the intensity of visual attention and consider related terms like "steady gaze" or "focused gaze" for alternative phrasing. Be mindful of the phrase's connotations, ensuring it aligns with the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

focused gaze

Directly indicates concentration in the act of looking.

steady gaze

Emphasizes the unwavering nature of the look.

concentrated stare

Directly expresses the act of focusing intently while looking.

unwavering gaze

Focuses on the steadfast and resolute nature of the gaze.

intent stare

Highlights the purposefulness behind the gaze.

intense look

Highlights the high degree of concentration in the gaze.

piercing look

Suggests a sharp or penetrating quality to the gaze.

riveted gaze

Implies the gaze is held captive, unable to look away.

resolute gaze

Indicates determination and firmness in the act of looking.

absorbed look

Suggests a state of deep immersion in what is being viewed.

FAQs

What does "fixed gaze" mean?

A "fixed gaze" refers to a steady, unwavering look, often implying intense focus, concentration, or a state of absorption. It suggests the person is looking intently at something without shifting their eyes.

When is it appropriate to use "fixed gaze" in writing?

Use "fixed gaze" when you want to emphasize the intensity or unwavering nature of someone's look. It can suggest determination, obsession, or deep concentration. Consider alternatives like "steady gaze" or "focused gaze" if the intensity isn't the primary focus.

What are some alternatives to "fixed gaze"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "steady gaze", "intent stare", "piercing look", or "focused gaze". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How does "fixed gaze" differ from a normal look?

A "fixed gaze" implies a greater degree of concentration and immobility than a normal look. It suggests that the person is not simply seeing something but is intensely focused on it, often to the exclusion of other stimuli. A normal look is more casual and less intense.