furrow brow

USAGE SUMMARY

"furrow brow" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a facial expression of deep concentration or disapproval. For example, you might write, "The student furrowed his brow as he struggled to solve the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

The chaps furrow brows soulfully as the women do energetic face acting of their own.

The Guardian - Film

Artfully furrowed brow.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

(Insert furrowed brow joke here).

The New York Times

With furrowed brow, she racked her brain.

The New Yorker

He has cropped graying hair and a perpetually furrowed brow.

The New Yorker

People come to our house, furrowed brow and concerned - 'Have I got enough money?

The Guardian - Film

The metallic-stretchy suit in Phase 1, creating the impression of longer legs, looked torturous; so did her furrowed brow.

The New York Times - Arts

Nerves shot, furrowed brow, jittery reflexes, feverish--symptoms that point to only one diagnosis--you have Grantitis!

Science Magazine

Furrowed brows!

The New Yorker

This caused furrowed brows.

Independent

Furrowed brows are a given.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "furrow brow" to subtly convey concern, confusion, or deep thought in your characters or subjects. It adds depth to descriptions of their emotional states.

Common error

Avoid repeatedly using "furrow brow" in scenes with extensive dialogue. Vary your descriptions of nonverbal cues to prevent the writing from becoming repetitive and predictable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "furrow brow" functions primarily as a verb phrase used to describe a facial expression. This expression typically signifies concentration, confusion, or concern. Ludwig provides examples where individuals "furrow" their brows while thinking or reacting to a situation.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

17%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "furrow brow" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon verb phrase used to describe a facial expression of concern, confusion, or deep thought. As indicated by Ludwig, it's a neutral term that fits well in a variety of writing contexts, particularly in news and media. While useful for adding subtle nonverbal cues to your writing, be cautious of overuse. Consider alternatives like "knit one's brow" or "frown" to avoid repetition. Use it effectively to enhance your descriptions and convey a character's internal state without explicitly stating their feelings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

knit one's brow

Replaces "furrow" with "knit", emphasizing the action of drawing the brows together.

crease one's forehead

Focuses on the resulting creases on the forehead from the expression.

wrinkle one's forehead

Similar to creasing the forehead, but emphasizes the wrinkles formed.

frown

A more general term for expressing displeasure or worry with the face.

display a frown

A more descriptive way of saying someone is frowning or showing displeasure.

scowl

Implies a more intense and negative facial expression than simply furrowing the brow.

look thoughtful

Shifts the focus from the physical expression to the internal state of contemplation.

look worried

Highlights the emotion of worry that can be conveyed by a furrowed brow.

have a perplexed expression

Indicates confusion or puzzlement, often accompanied by a furrowed brow.

show concern

Emphasizes the emotion of concern, rather than the facial expression itself.

FAQs

How can I use "furrow brow" in a sentence?

You can use "furrow brow" to describe someone who is showing concern, confusion, or deep thought, such as "She "furrowed her brow" as she considered the problem".

What is a more formal way to say "furrow brow"?

While "furrow brow" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives include "knit one's brow" or "crease one's forehead", which provide a slightly elevated tone.

When is it appropriate to use "furrow brow"?

It's appropriate to use "furrow brow" when you want to subtly show that a character is experiencing confusion, worry, or deep concentration without explicitly stating their feelings.

What are some other facial expressions that can convey similar emotions to "furrow brow"?

Alternatives include "frown", "scowl", or "look thoughtful", depending on the specific emotion and intensity you want to express.