fixed on face

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "fixed on face" is not a standard expression in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used in a context where something is attached or secured to a surface, specifically a face, but clarity is needed for proper understanding. Example: "The sticker was fixed on face of the box, making it easy to identify."

News & Media

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

SEATED within the white cube, silent and stylish, a look of ennui fixed on their faces, gallery assistants are a curious breed.

The New York Times

I figured out that the disquietude I saw on so many faces was more likely to be fixed on faces that didn't look like mine.

Huffington Post

While a second year student of the Royal Danish Ballet School stands comfortably in front of Elkins' lens, hands intertwined and a calm expression fixed on his face, an older member of Dansehallerne appears in a hypnotic state, his arm twisted around his face and his eyes tightly shut.

Huffington Post

Mr. McCain, a stern expression fixed on his face, did not seem to be having a good time.

The New York Times

A friend and local promoter standing side-stage had an odd look fixed on his face the whole night.

Vice

When I'm with them, it's a case of keeping a smile fixed on my face and trying not to look at my watch.' Is this the best way forward?

The Guardian

Surrounded by friends and his Del Maguey family, Cooper worked the room filled with journalists and PR execs like an old sage, imparting agave wisdom backed up with impromptu tastings of his single village varietals, a look of satisfaction fixed on his face.

Forbes

Grams keeps a smile fixed on his face.

The Washington Post

Representative Norm Dicks, Democrat of Washington, kept a scowl fixed on his face throughout the hearing.

The New York Times

I remember the hesitation in our friend's voice, the half-smile fixed on her face.

The New York Times - Style

Ms Weingarten hates being cast as the bad guy, as she was on a panel with Ms Rhee in September, a pained smile fixed on her face.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

If the intention of the user is to specify to be physically attached to the face, specify the type of object in order to avoid misunderstanding

Common error

Avoid using "fixed on face" when you actually mean someone is wearing a particular expression. Instead of saying "a smile fixed on his face", try "a smile played on his face", or “a forced smile was present on his face” to emphasize the artificiality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "fixed on face" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, often modifying a verb or noun to indicate the direction of focus or attachment. Ludwig suggests using more specific verbs for enhanced clarity.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Social Media

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "fixed on face" can denote physical attachment or intense focus, but its ambiguity necessitates careful contextualization. While Ludwig examples reveal usage across news, science, and formal business, clarity is crucial. Consider alternatives like "focused on face" or "intent on face" for sharper communication. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptable but advises precise language. When using "fixed on face", ensure the context makes your intent clear, reducing potential misinterpretations and enhancing overall writing quality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

focused on face

Replaces "fixed" with "focused", emphasizing mental attention rather than physical attachment.

intent on face

Highlights the purposefulness of the gaze, suggesting determination.

riveted on face

Implies being completely captivated or fascinated by the face.

glued to face

Suggests an unwavering, almost obsessive, focus on the face.

stuck on face

Indicates something physically attached to the face.

fastened to face

Emphasizes a secure attachment or connection to the face.

trained on face

Suggests the direction of something, like a camera or gaze, towards the face.

centered on face

Highlights that the face is the main point of interest or focus.

trained eyes on face

Suggests looking towards the face as a result of training.

set on face

Indicates a firm decision to concentrate on the face.

FAQs

How can I use "fixed on face" in a sentence?

The phrase "fixed on face" can be used to describe something physically attached to someone's face, or to describe someone's gaze. Example: "The tube was fixed on the patient's face" or "Her gaze was fixed on his face".

What does "fixed on face" mean?

The phrase "fixed on face" usually means something is attached to someone's face or that someone's attention or gaze is focused on a face. Depending on context, consider more specific alternatives such as "focused on face" or "fastened to face".

What are some alternatives to "fixed on face"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "intent on face" to emphasize determination, or "riveted on face" to suggest captivation.

When is it inappropriate to use "fixed on face"?

Avoid using "fixed on face" if you mean someone is wearing a particular expression. Instead, use phrases like "a smile played on his face" or "a pained expression appeared on their face" for better clarity.