look of derision

USAGE SUMMARY

"look of derision" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It describes an expression on someone's face that shows disdain or contempt. For example, "The student received a look of derision from his teacher when he failed to answer the question."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"This happened because the Jews are Jews," he said with a look of derision.

The New York Times

Men: how many times have you gone out with some friends, only to have a female friend ask you to carry her card and ID? "Why don't you have clothes with pockets?" you ask, but receive only a look of derision.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

To laughter from many MPs, but looks of derision and hollers of complaint from others, including shadow chancellor Ed Balls, he told Ms Eagle: "Calm down, dear.

BBC

If the defender does not reply within a time frame, an expression of derision is witnessed.

Wikipedia

I was in a crowded airport terminal when he made his farewell address, and if I had to pick a single phrase to characterize the response of people who looked up at the monitor, it would be "snorts of derision".

Huffington Post

The appointment was looked on as ridiculous, and his birthday odes were a continual source of derision.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"The K.G.B. looked down on the G.R.U. as 'the boots' or sapogi, a term of derision...

The New York Times - Books

"Lots of farmers pretend to be like that," he says with a snort of derision, "but they're just jumping on the bandwagon because it makes them look cool".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

There are snorts of derision.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

With a snort of derision?

The New York Times - Arts

The Palestinian response was one of derision.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "look of derision" when you want to specifically emphasize the facial expression that conveys contempt, rather than just the feeling itself. It's useful when describing someone's reaction or nonverbal communication.

Common error

Avoid using "look of derision" when a milder expression of disapproval is intended. Derision implies strong contempt, so ensure the context warrants such a strong term.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look of derision" functions as a noun phrase that describes a specific facial expression conveying strong disapproval and ridicule. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is a correct phrase. The examples provided in Ludwig show its use in describing reactions to statements or situations.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

33%

Encyclopedias

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "look of derision" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a facial expression conveying contempt and ridicule. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, though its frequency is relatively rare. It's most commonly found in news and media, as well as wiki sources, and serves to express strong disapproval visually. When using the phrase, ensure that the context warrants such a strong expression, and consider related phrases like "expression of contempt" or "show of scorn" for nuances in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expression of contempt

Replaces "look" with a broader term, "expression", and uses "contempt" instead of "derision", focusing on the feeling of disdain.

show of scorn

Substitutes "look" with "show" and uses "scorn", indicating a strong feeling of dislike and disapproval.

gesture of mockery

Emphasizes the act of ridicule through a gesture, making it more active than a simple look.

sneer

A more concise and direct term describing a facial expression of contempt.

scoffing glance

Combines a brief look with an expression of disbelief or ridicule.

contemptuous stare

Highlights a prolonged, intense look filled with contempt.

disdainful gaze

Uses "gaze" to indicate a longer, more deliberate look of disdain.

mocking gaze

Indicates derision shown through a sustained and obvious look.

scornful expression

Uses "expression" as a broader term to indicate an outward sign of scorn.

derisive glance

Conveys a quick, dismissive look filled with derision.

FAQs

How can I use "look of derision" in a sentence?

You can use "look of derision" to describe a facial expression that conveys contempt or scorn. For instance, "The proposal was met with a "look of derision" from the board members".

What's the difference between "look of derision" and "look of scorn"?

While both phrases convey disapproval, "look of scorn" emphasizes a feeling of contempt and disdain, whereas "look of derision" highlights ridicule and mockery.

What are some alternative ways to describe a "look of derision"?

Alternatives include "expression of contempt", "show of scorn", or simply using the word "sneer depending on the desired level of detail and intensity.

Is "look of derision" a formal or informal expression?

"Look of derision" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it is more common in descriptive writing where a specific emotional nuance is required.