grave expression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "grave expression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a serious or solemn facial expression, often indicating concern, sadness, or seriousness. Example: "Upon hearing the news, she wore a grave expression that reflected her deep concern for the situation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

A militant poet with a grave expression on his face was giving a speech.

The New Yorker

Thomas has worn a grave expression in recent meetings with reporters.

The New York Times - Sports

Pettitte emerged from his deposition with a serious, somewhat grave expression, accompanied by his wife and three lawyers.

The New York Times - Sports

"I think you should move," the fellow who assists me weekly with the upkeep of my one-room domestic nest said with a grave expression not long ago.

The New York Times - Magazine

Vittorio tells me about the time Pasolini came to a private screening of one of the Tavianis' films, only to storm off afterwards wearing a grave expression.

The Guardian - Film

When Cersei rushes out to greet him, and then sees his grave expression and their daughter's coffin behind him, watching her expression change is quite moving.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

The four defendants — James Cromitie, Onta Williams, Laguerre Payen and David Williams IV — and their lawyers wore grave expressions as the jurors left the room.

The New York Times

When I arrived, on March 13th, I spotted Osama, standing next to the emergency entrance in a group of young fighters who wore grave expressions.

The New Yorker

Like Mr. Godard, Mr. Portabella clings to aesthetic principles — a commitment to difficulty, to seriousness, to scenes involving fine-boned women with grave expressions and without clothes — that can seem both fragile and complacent.

The New York Times

— Wearing grave expressions and lavender head scarves, a dozen women filed into a church garret here recently and began tackling Chopin, Schumann and Beethoven with instruments including mandolins, guitars, recorder, accordion and snare drum.

The New York Times - Arts

It was a grim day outside and the "clients" wore winter coats and grave expressions: a sad, soft-spoken succession of 30-odd adults furrowing their brows, and a few desperately bored kids kicking their chair legs.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "grave expression" when you want to convey a sense of seriousness, solemnity, or concern in someone's appearance. It is particularly effective in formal writing or when describing emotional reactions to serious events.

Common error

Avoid using "grave expression" in casual conversation or lighthearted contexts. It can sound overly dramatic or pretentious. Opt for simpler alternatives like "serious look" or "concerned face" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "grave expression" functions primarily as a descriptive element, typically used to characterize a person's appearance or demeanor. It specifies the nature of the expression, indicating its seriousness and solemnity. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Wiki

4%

Encyclopedias

4%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "grave expression" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase, predominantly in news and media, to depict a serious or solemn facial expression. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to formal contexts and signals a weighty situation or deep concern. Alternative phrases, such as "serious look" or "solemn face", may be more appropriate for informal settings. The phrase effectively communicates the gravity of a moment, and using it judiciously can enhance the impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

solemn countenance

Emphasizes the facial appearance as being serious and dignified.

serious look

A more general term, simply indicating a lack of levity in one's appearance.

somber face

Highlights a subdued or melancholic expression.

concerned visage

Specifically suggests worry or anxiety reflected in the face.

unsmiling aspect

Focuses on the absence of a smile, implying seriousness or disapproval.

stern gaze

Indicates a firm, uncompromising, and often authoritative expression.

grimace of concern

Implies a facial contortion expressing worry or discomfort.

forbidding air

Suggests an intimidating or unwelcoming expression.

brooding mien

Describes a thoughtful and often troubled or ominous appearance.

austere look

Highlights a severe and disciplined expression, lacking warmth or ornamentation.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "grave expression" in a sentence?

Employ "grave expression" to depict a character's reaction to somber news or a weighty situation. For example: "The president addressed the nation with a "grave expression", signaling the severity of the crisis."

What are some alternatives to using "grave expression"?

You can use alternatives like "serious look", "solemn face", or "concerned visage" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "grave expression" in casual conversation?

While grammatically correct, using "grave expression" in casual conversation may sound overly formal or theatrical. Simpler phrases like "serious face" or "worried look" might be more suitable.

What's the difference between "grave expression" and "sad expression"?

"Grave expression" implies a deeper level of seriousness and solemnity, often associated with important or critical matters. A "sad expression" simply indicates unhappiness or sorrow, without necessarily implying gravity.