look of frustration

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "look of frustration" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone's facial expression or demeanor that conveys feelings of annoyance or disappointment. Example: "When she heard the news, her look of frustration was evident to everyone in the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Wearing a look of frustration and relief, he completed the trade.

The New York Times

It did not reach the rim, though, falling well short, and a look of frustration creased Taurasi's face.

The New York Times - Sports

Westbrook was so thwarted — 4-of-13 shooting and eight turnovers — that by the second quarter he was barking at referees and wearing a look of frustration.

The New York Times - Sports

Less than five minutes in to the second half, Villas-Boas had gone from having a look of frustration to one of satisfaction.

Independent

Morales, his cheekbones swelling and with a look of frustration building, took many punches in the fourth, but in the final 10 seconds, he lashed out.

The New York Times - Sports

9.11am GMT 53rd over: South Africa 175-7 (De Villiers 73, Philander 9) Siddle resumes his battle with Philander, the No.9 picking up three more courtesy of a streaky edge that leaves the Aussie with a look of frustration on his face.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

His face torn between a glare and a grimace, he casts a look at her, tightens his mouth and looks down, an expression of frustration and dejection he'll never let her see.

The New York Times

But in his heart he suspects Britain is full of intellectually vain officials and is doomed to stodgy decline.The prospect of a move of headquarters back to Hong Kong grew when Michael Geoghegan, Mr Gulliver's fiery predecessor, shifted his personal office there early last year in what now looks like an expression of frustration.

The Economist

A young Serbian told me that her people had no hatred for others in the Balkans, but then, with a look of bitter frustration, added that the same mentality that had brought Milosevic to power was taking things in that direction again.

The Guardian - Travel

Expression of frustration?

The Guardian

He looked like he was letting out a lot of frustration there.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "expression of frustration" /s/expression+of+frustration or "air of frustration" /s/air+of+frustration to avoid repetition in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "look of frustration" repeatedly in close proximity. Vary your descriptions with related phrases or different ways of showing frustration, such as describing specific actions or physical cues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look of frustration" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific facial expression or demeanor indicating a state of frustration. This analysis aligns with Ludwig AI's assessment of the phrase as correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "look of frustration" is a grammatically sound and neutrally-registered way to describe a facial expression indicative of frustration. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and suitable for use. While not extremely common, it appears most frequently in News & Media contexts. To add nuance to your writing, consider using alternatives such as "expression of frustration" or "air of frustration", and be mindful of avoiding overuse. It is often more effective to show the frustration through specific actions, rather than merely stating it.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expression of frustration

This is a more formal and direct way to convey the feeling, focusing on the outward display rather than the appearance.

face of frustration

This emphasizes the facial expression as the primary indicator of frustration.

air of frustration

This suggests a pervasive or surrounding feeling of frustration, rather than just a momentary expression.

sense of frustration

This refers to an internal feeling of frustration that may or may not be outwardly visible.

feeling of frustration

Similar to "sense of frustration", this emphasizes the internal emotional state.

display of frustration

This focuses on the outward manifestation of frustration through actions or words.

visage of frustration

A more literary or formal alternative to "face of frustration".

manifestation of frustration

This suggests a broader range of ways in which frustration can be shown, not just visually.

symptom of frustration

This implies that the frustration is a sign of a deeper underlying issue.

outpouring of frustration

Suggests a sudden and intense release of pent-up frustration.

FAQs

How can I describe a "look of frustration" in more detail?

You can add adjectives to specify the intensity or type of frustration, such as a "weary look of frustration" or a "suppressed look of frustration".

What's the difference between a "look of frustration" and a "look of annoyance"?

A "look of frustration" implies a feeling of being blocked or hindered from achieving a goal, while a "look of annoyance" suggests a feeling of irritation or impatience.

Are there situations where "expression of frustration" is better than "look of frustration"?

Yes, "expression of frustration" is typically more appropriate in formal writing or when referring to a broader display of frustration beyond just facial expressions.

What are some physical cues that might accompany a "look of frustration"?

Physical cues can include furrowed brows, tight lips, clenched fists, or a general air of tension. These cues enhance the visual portrayal of frustration.