indulgent smiles

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "indulgent smiles" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe smiles that convey a sense of leniency, warmth, or a forgiving attitude, often in a context where someone is being overly generous or tolerant. Example: "She looked at the children with indulgent smiles as they played, clearly enjoying their carefree antics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

The boy, on the other hand, spreads metaphorical sunshine, prompting enthusiastic waves and indulgent smiles.

The New York Times - Books

"Crimes of the Heart" should elicit laughs, not just indulgent smiles.

The New York Times

(I probably chalked up a half-dozen chuckles, one-half of one belly laugh and quite a few indulgent smiles).

The New York Times

Although the beauty of Yeats's language sometimes entrances, and the comedies retain their salty flavor, the plays mostly come across as stilted and mossy, historical novelties with mystical touches that raise indulgent smiles.

The New York Times

But Ms. Streep makes you believe in Jane, or rather makes you want to believe in her, from her casually chic wardrobe to the indulgent smiles she bestows on her children and lovers, all of whom need nurturing.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Williams said, with a father's indulgent smile.

The New Yorker

"What?" Peterson said, with a faint, indulgent smile.

The New Yorker

From the bleachers I let out a cheer, and he threw me an indulgent smile.

The New York Times

The words prompted many an indulgent smile – until they came true.

The Guardian - Books

"But nothing, of course, can replace my own pigeons in Syria," Mr. Atra said, his wife standing next to him with the hint of an indulgent smile.

The New York Times

Both accusations are well documented; one can imagine Mother Teresa listening to them with an indulgent smile on her wrinkled face.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "indulgent smiles" to depict characters who are parents, mentors, or figures of authority gently overlooking minor flaws or eccentricities.

Common error

While "indulgent smiles" is appropriate for describing personal interactions, it may appear too sentimental or informal in professional or academic writing. Opt for more neutral terms like "understanding" or "considerate" in those settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "indulgent smiles" functions as a descriptive element, typically modifying a subject to convey a specific emotional state. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s grammatically correct and serves to characterize the nature of the smiles being described.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "indulgent smiles" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe smiles that convey a sense of leniency, warmth, or forgiving acceptance. While versatile, it is most frequently found in News & Media and is best employed in contexts where depicting a character's emotional state is key. As supported by Ludwig AI, the phrase is well-regarded and understandable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tolerant smiles

Shifts the focus to acceptance and patience rather than leniency or amusement.

lenient smiles

Emphasizes a mild or permissive attitude conveyed by the smile.

forgiving smiles

Highlights the act of pardoning or overlooking a fault through the smile.

warm smiles

Focuses on the affectionate and friendly nature of the smile.

amused smiles

Highlights the sense of gentle amusement or mild humor conveyed by the smile.

patronizing smiles

Introduces a subtle condescension or air of superiority in the smile.

understanding smiles

Highlights the empathy and comprehension conveyed through the smile.

knowing smiles

Implies a shared secret or awareness between the smiler and the recipient.

gentle smiles

Focuses on the soft and tender quality of the smile.

accepting smiles

Emphasizes the welcoming and non-judgmental nature of the smile.

FAQs

What does "indulgent smiles" mean?

The phrase "indulgent smiles" describes smiles that show a sense of leniency, patience, or gentle amusement, often towards someone's minor flaws or eccentricities.

When is it appropriate to use "indulgent smiles" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "indulgent smiles" when describing characters or situations where a person is showing warmth or overlooking minor issues with a kind, accepting attitude. It fits well in narrative and descriptive writing.

What are some alternatives to "indulgent smiles"?

You can use alternatives like "tolerant smiles", "lenient smiles", or "understanding smiles" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I effectively use "indulgent smiles" to create vivid imagery?

To effectively use "indulgent smiles", focus on the context. Show what triggers the smile, and what the person smiling is thinking or feeling. Is it a parent's smile towards a child's antics, or a mentor's smile towards a student's naive enthusiasm?