long face

USAGE SUMMARY

"long face" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It typically refers to a person's facial expression, often one that conveys sadness or disappointment. Example: After hearing the news, she had a long face.

✓ Grammatically correct

Facial expression indicating sadness or disappointment

Physical description of facial features

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

To obscure her long face.

The New Yorker

Ryan (Long Face) Gosling isn't very attractive.

The New Yorker

Blond hair, long face, pointy chin.

The Guardian

His long face crinkles into a grin.

The Guardian - Film

The aide returned with a long face of apology.

The New Yorker

A long face or muzzle is characteristic of wild canines.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Hey, why the long face, Mr. Smooth Fox Terrier?

The New Yorker

Walmsley, C. W. et al. Why the long face?

Nature

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Under negotiation, the two parties engage in (possibly arbitrarily long) face-to-face cheap talk.

Journal of Economic Theory

One well-known Luba substyle has been called the "long-face style" of Buli.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Such effect should be avoided in long-face patients with reduced overbite.

Progress in Orthodontics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "long face" when you want to describe someone's expression of sadness, disappointment, or general unhappiness. For physical descriptions, ensure the context clarifies you are describing facial features and not mood.

Common error

Avoid using "long face" solely as a physical descriptor without appropriate context, as it's primarily understood as an expression of sadness. If describing facial features, be explicit to prevent misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

"Long face" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It's used to describe either a facial expression indicating sadness or disappointment or, less commonly, the physical shape of someone's face. Ludwig AI confirms its typical usage is related to expressions of emotion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

17%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "long face" is a common idiom used primarily to describe an expression of sadness or disappointment. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and typical usage. While it can also refer to a physical facial shape, this is less frequent and requires specific context to avoid misinterpretation. When writing, be mindful of the intended meaning and provide clarifying details if referring to physical characteristics rather than emotional expression. Related phrases like "sad expression" or "downcast expression" can serve as alternatives depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sad expression

Focuses on the emotional display rather than the specific facial feature.

disappointed face

Highlights the feeling of disappointment reflected in one's face.

unhappy look

Describes the general appearance of unhappiness.

downcast expression

Emphasizes the lowered or subdued nature of the expression.

crestfallen look

Suggests extreme disappointment and dejection.

gloomy countenance

Uses a more formal term for facial appearance, indicating sadness.

depressed appearance

Indicates a general state of depression reflected in one's looks.

melancholy face

Uses a more literary term for a sad or pensive face.

dismal visage

Emphasizes the bleakness or dreariness of the face.

hangdog expression

Conveys shame or guilt along with sadness.

FAQs

How can I describe a "long face" in terms of physical appearance without implying sadness?

You can specify that you are describing facial features by saying someone "has a long face shape" or "a face that is long and narrow". Adding further details can help avoid misinterpretation.

What does it mean when someone asks, "Why the long face?"

It's an idiomatic question that means “Why are you sad?” or “Why do you look so unhappy?”. It’s a direct way of asking someone what's wrong.

Are there alternative idioms to "long face" that express sadness or disappointment?

Yes, you can use phrases like "downcast expression", "unhappy look", or "sad expression" to convey similar sentiments.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "long face"?

It’s appropriate in informal and neutral contexts when referring to someone's sad or disappointed facial expression. Avoid using it in formal or professional settings where more direct language might be preferred.