incredulous expression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "incredulous expression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a facial expression that shows disbelief or skepticism in response to something surprising or hard to believe. Example: "When she heard the outrageous claim, her face contorted into an incredulous expression."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Not only did an incredulous expression come over my uncle's face — raised eyebrows, marvelling nod — but the words just out of my mouth sounded alien even to me, pompous and lacking in conviction.

The New Yorker

The incredulous expression of Al Leiter, hands on the sides of his cap, as Perez ran down a drive to the right-field corner for a backhand catch against the wall in St . Louison Thursday night, said it all.

The New York Times - Sports

"Well, I'm doing it, so it must be possible," he said, his face flashing into the sharp, faintly incredulous expression he often gets when he talks about his hip.

The New York Times - Magazine

My citing of Ziegler's appearance on a Reality TV dating show was included for the reasons given in its original context: I found an apt comparison to his incredulous expression as USC security detained him with the look on his face as he describes to a woman that he believes marriage should be renegotiated every five years as the man's power in the relationship appreciates.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

At first, the women in the audience, who had never seen theatre before, stared at the cast with incredulous expressions.

The New Yorker

The Yankees bore the same incredulous expressions often in 1998, when they were good and lucky and set an American League record with 114 victories.

The New York Times - Sports

Ibra's incredulous expressions and grouchy performance made for a diverting sideshow but there is no suggestion that he will hold a grudge.

The Guardian - Sport

The riders wore white gloves and incredulous expressions at the odd couple walking in the middle of nowhere in the afternoon heat.

The Guardian - Travel

As far as any discerning viewer will be concerned, MasterChef: The Professionals belongs solely to Monica Galetti and her ever-expanding repertoire of incredulous facial expressions.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

He has the same incredulous, sceptical look I do.

The Economist

There's not much to be said, beyond a generalised expression of incredulous disgust, about the apparently growing Sandy Hook "truth" movement, and probably much to be gained by ignoring it.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the intensity of the emotion you want to convey. While "incredulous expression" suggests disbelief, other phrases might be more appropriate for stronger emotions like shock or amazement.

Common error

Avoid using "incredulous expression" when you mean simple surprise. Ensure the context truly reflects disbelief or skepticism, not just mild astonishment.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "incredulous expression" functions as a descriptive noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb (e.g., 'wore an "incredulous expression"'). It helps to characterize someone's reaction in response to surprising or unbelievable information. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "incredulous expression" is a grammatically sound and relatively uncommon phrase used to describe a facial display of disbelief or skepticism. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable. It is most frequently encountered in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the context accurately reflects genuine disbelief rather than mere surprise. Consider related phrases like "disbelieving look" or "skeptical gaze" for nuanced variations. This phrase is effective for adding depth to descriptions of characters' reactions in various narratives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expression of disbelief

A more formal and explicit way to describe the reaction.

unbelieving face

Focuses on the facial expression of someone who finds something hard to accept.

disbelieving look

Focuses on the visual aspect of disbelief.

skeptical gaze

Highlights a questioning and unconvinced expression.

dubious look

Implies uncertainty and a reluctance to believe.

astonished countenance

Emphasizes a stronger sense of surprise and wonder.

amazed look

Simple and direct way to express surprise.

look of astonishment

Highlights the shock or surprise in someone's expression.

doubtful expression

Emphasizes the uncertainty or skepticism.

surprised expression

General term for showing surprise.

FAQs

How can I use "incredulous expression" in a sentence?

You can use "incredulous expression" to describe someone's face when they are having a hard time believing something. For example: "When she heard the outrageous claim, her face contorted into an "incredulous expression".

What's a good alternative to "incredulous expression"?

Alternatives include "disbelieving look", "skeptical gaze", or "expression of disbelief". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "incredulous expression" or "incredulous face"?

"Incredulous expression" is generally more precise as it refers specifically to the facial display of disbelief. "Incredulous face" is also acceptable, but slightly less descriptive.

What does it mean when someone has an "incredulous expression"?

An "incredulous expression" indicates that someone is finding something difficult to believe and is showing this disbelief through their facial features, such as raised eyebrows or a skeptical look.