look of fear

USAGE SUMMARY

"look of fear" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe the expression on someone's face when they are scared of something. For example, "The look of fear on her face was unmistakable when she heard the loud noise outside."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

There are no tears, but a terrible look of fear.

The Guardian

In Gordon's, sporting a couple of bruises and a look of fear in his eyes.

Independent

I'll never forget the look of fear on my baby's face.

The Washington Post

It wasn't a look of fear, but of curiosity or even recognition and pleasure.

The Guardian

She pauses for a moment, a look of fear coming over her face.

The Guardian

That look of fear, sadness, pain, anger, helplessness – it's telling you his entire story.

The Guardian - Arts

"But you can't do that with HIV because you'll often get a look of fear and shock".

Independent

All the adults correctly identified the look of fear, whereas only about half of teenagers got the right answer.

The Guardian

"And then it becomes art, and we have to shape each face into a look of fear.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

We perceive looks of pity, looks of fear, looks of reverence and solidarity.

The New York Times

It could explain the looks of fear on the villagers' faces when they see you for the first time.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use “look of fear” to vividly depict a character's emotional state in writing, adding depth and realism to the narrative. Ensure the surrounding context supports the intensity of the emotion conveyed.

Common error

While effective, overuse of the phrase “look of fear” can diminish its impact. Vary your descriptions by focusing on specific physical manifestations of fear, such as widened eyes or trembling lips, for a more nuanced portrayal.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look of fear" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific emotional state conveyed through facial expression. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

20%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "look of fear" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to vividly describe someone's emotional state, specifically their feeling of being scared or threatened. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across various contexts, including news, media, and academic writing. While generally neutral in register, writers should be mindful of overusing the cliché and consider using more descriptive language to enhance its impact. Alternatives like "frightened expression" or "panicked look" can provide nuanced portrayals of fear. Understanding its function, purpose, and usage patterns can help writers effectively convey emotions and evoke empathy in their audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

frightened expression

Focuses on the visible manifestation of fear on someone's face.

panicked look

Emphasizes the sudden and overwhelming nature of the fear.

terrified gaze

Highlights the intensity and fixity of the fearful look.

anxious countenance

Refers to the facial expression indicating worry or unease.

apprehensive air

Focuses on the general atmosphere or demeanor of fear surrounding someone.

horror-stricken face

Emphasizes the shock and revulsion associated with extreme fear.

fearful mien

A more formal way to describe a person's appearance or expression indicating fear.

distressed appearance

Highlights the overall state of suffering or worry, which includes fear.

uneasy aspect

Implies a mild form of fear or discomfort in someone's expression.

look of trepidation

Indicates a hesitant or fearful anticipation of something.

FAQs

How can I describe a milder form of fear than using "look of fear"?

For less intense fear, consider using phrases like "uneasy expression", "apprehensive glance", or /s/"nervous look" to convey a sense of worry without the strong connotation of terror.

What physical cues can accompany a "look of fear" in writing?

Enhance the description by adding details such as trembling hands, a racing pulse, or a choked voice to make the character's fear more palpable.

Is "look of fear" appropriate for formal writing?

While generally acceptable, in formal contexts, you might opt for more sophisticated language like "expression of trepidation" or /s/"manifestation of anxiety" to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "look of fear" and /s/"expression of fear"?

"Look of fear" is more immediate and visual, referring directly to what someone's face shows at a specific moment. "Expression of fear" is broader, encompassing any way fear is communicated, including body language or tone.