irritated expression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "irritated expression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's facial expression that conveys annoyance or displeasure. Example: "When she heard the news, her face immediately shifted to an irritated expression."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

He could see all the telltale signs of negligent intent: the irritated expression, the hurried pace, the absence of a plastic bag in the pocket.

The New York Times

He put on a bemused, if slightly irritated expression.

Huffington Post

She doesn't seem to have moved, and her irritated expression suggests that I was not invited back yet.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

He pointed me towards my three teammates on the track, who also wore irritated expressions on their faces they were not expecting much of a performance from T. Kid.

Vice

Mr. Frank gave Mr. Knox his irritated squinty look.

The New York Times

The couple look irritated.

Vice

"Look how irritated Jack looks.

The New York Times

Branson looked irritated and then assumed his more common "Hey, it's only rock and roll" expression: "If you are first, it's a race,'' he explained, as we tried desperately to come about and catch the wind.

The New Yorker

Branson looked irritated and then assumed his more common "Hey, it's only rock and roll" expression: "If you are first, it's a race," he explained, as we tried desperately to come about and catch the wind.

The New Yorker

The clash between irritated Hong Kong natives and mainlanders is one of economic and political interests; it rarely finds official expression or redress but flares, every so often, into a cultural flash point, over comically mundane incidents.

The New Yorker

Irritated yet?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "irritated expression" when you want to specifically describe someone's facial display of annoyance, especially in narrative writing. It's more descriptive than simply stating they are irritated.

Common error

While "irritated expression" is acceptable, consider stronger or more nuanced vocabulary in formal contexts. Words like "displeased", "exasperated", or "aggravated" might be more appropriate depending on the specific emotion and situation you're describing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "irritated expression" functions primarily as a descriptive noun phrase. It describes the outward manifestation of the emotion of irritation, focusing on the facial display. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "irritated expression" is a descriptive term used to depict a facial display of annoyance. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase's usability and correctness. Though grammatically sound, it appears relatively infrequently, primarily in news and media contexts. For more formal scenarios, consider alternatives such as "displeased countenance". When writing, focusing on specific facial features can enhance the description. Despite its limited usage, the phrase effectively communicates a character's emotional state.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

annoyed look

Replaces the word "irritated" with "annoyed", focusing on the visual aspect of the emotion.

irked expression

Synonym for irritated, implying minor annoyance.

frustrated look

Replaces "irritated" with "frustrated" emphasizing a feeling of helplessness or discontent.

displeased countenance

Uses more formal language to describe a face showing dissatisfaction.

cross look

Simple and direct way to say someone looks angry or annoyed.

exasperated air

Focuses on the overall feeling of frustration rather than a specific facial expression.

peeved face

Informal way to describe a slightly annoyed facial expression.

aggravated demeanor

Describes the overall behavior or attitude as being worsened or intensified.

impatient visage

Highlights the lack of patience in the facial expression.

resentful gaze

Suggests a deeper level of displeasure and bitterness in the expression.

FAQs

How can I describe an irritated expression?

You can describe an irritated expression by focusing on specific facial features like furrowed brows, a tight-lipped mouth, or a glare. The phrase "irritated expression" itself is a general descriptor.

What's a more formal way to say "irritated expression"?

For more formal writing, consider using "displeased countenance" or "exasperated air" instead of "irritated expression".

When is it appropriate to use "irritated expression"?

It's appropriate to use "irritated expression" in narrative writing, character descriptions, or informal communication where you want to convey a mild sense of annoyance or frustration.

Are there alternatives to "irritated expression" that imply a stronger emotion?

Yes, phrases like "angry glare", "furious scowl", or "resentful gaze" suggest a more intense level of anger or displeasure compared to "irritated expression".