flicker of surprise

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "flicker of surprise" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a brief or subtle expression of surprise that someone shows, often in response to unexpected information or events. Example: "When she heard the news, there was a flicker of surprise in her eyes before she composed herself."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

Blitzer, who had set up his question by noting that Clinton did not support the fifteen-dollar figure, betrayed a flicker of surprise, too.

The New Yorker

The flicker of surprise that crosses Mr. Damon's brow as Bourne discovers these mysterious abilities is one of the pictures sly, witty touches.

The New York Times

For some reason, I had assumed we were having a girl but, after a flicker of surprise, I began to picture what our lives would be like.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It took so long to get down the line that by the time someone popped up for the second time, you felt a flicker of surprise that John Edwards/Bob Graham/John Kerry was still there.

The New York Times

It seeps into your voice when you see the flicker of surprise in the cute boy's eyes who asks you about your whereabouts to strike a conversation outside a jam-packed airport tunnel.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

"Some kind of surprise.

The New York Times

Fear of surprise.

BBC

The future might be full of surprise.

Triple Helix

First, there should be surprise, even shock, chased by a flicker of disbelief.

The New Yorker

This intemperate act seemed to take even Mr. Hutcherson by surprise: he staggered a couple of steps back from his instrument, and there was a flicker of mild astonishment on his face before he convulsed with laughter.

The New York Times - Arts

"The waiter, arriving a moment later, gazed with surprise at the empty space on the quay; then observing us with a quickly-masked flicker of pleasure, he stepped unhesitatingly into the sea...".

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "flicker of surprise" to subtly describe a momentary expression of surprise, rather than an overwhelming reaction. It's suitable for describing nuanced emotions in narrative writing.

Common error

Avoid using "flicker of surprise" excessively in dialogue tags. Overusing it can make characters seem emotionally detached or underreactive, diminishing the impact of their responses.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "flicker of surprise" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a momentary and subtle expression of surprise. Ludwig confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "flicker of surprise" is a grammatically sound and subtle way to describe a brief expression of surprise. Predominantly used in news and media, it effectively conveys momentary astonishment. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness. When writing, use it to add nuance to character descriptions, but avoid overuse in dialogue. Consider alternatives like "hint of astonishment" or "glimmer of shock" for varied impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

blink of surprise

Replaces flicker with blink emphasizing a fast reaction

hint of astonishment

Replaces "flicker" with "hint" and "surprise" with "astonishment", suggesting a more subtle and refined expression of surprise.

glimmer of shock

Substitutes "flicker" with "glimmer" and "surprise" with "shock", indicating a more intense and jarring initial reaction.

fleeting expression of disbelief

Replaces the entire phrase with a more descriptive expression, emphasizing the temporary and doubtful nature of the surprise.

brief moment of astonishment

Replaces "flicker" with "brief moment" and "surprise" with "astonishment", highlighting the brevity and intensity of the feeling.

sudden look of wonder

Shifts the focus to the visual manifestation of surprise as "wonder", implying a sense of awe and amazement.

trace of amazement

Emphasizes the subtlety of the surprise, suggesting it is barely perceptible.

passing look of bewilderment

Replaces "surprise" with "bewilderment", indicating a state of confusion and uncertainty.

startled expression

Focuses on the physical reaction of being startled, implying a more sudden and involuntary response.

jolt of incredulity

Replaces "surprise" with "incredulity", suggesting a strong sense of disbelief.

FAQs

How can I use "flicker of surprise" in a sentence?

You might say, "A "flicker of surprise" crossed her face when she opened the unexpected gift."

What's a good alternative to "flicker of surprise"?

Alternatives include "hint of astonishment", "glimmer of shock", or "brief moment of astonishment", each suggesting a slightly different intensity of surprise.

Is it ever incorrect to use "flicker of surprise"?

While grammatically correct, "flicker of surprise" might not be the best choice if you want to describe an intense, prolonged expression of surprise. It's more appropriate for subtle, fleeting reactions.

What feeling does "flicker of surprise" convey?

It communicates a brief, subtle, and often involuntary expression of mild astonishment or unexpectedness. It suggests a fleeting reaction rather than a deep-seated emotion.