look straight at

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "look straight at" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe the act of directing one's gaze directly and unwaveringly at something or someone. Example: In the courtroom, the defendant looked straight at the jury as she gave her emotional testimony.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Should I look straight at the lens?

The New Yorker

They look straight at the camera and are often expressionless.

Encyclopedia Britannica

They can't look straight at me – they're dribbling wrecks".

The Guardian

Who dares look straight at the face of a god?

The New York Times - Books

He did not look straight at one when speaking.

The New York Times - Books

He was encouraged to look straight at people.

The Guardian

Both girls look straight at me, no longer bridling.

The New Yorker

Look straight at the television cameras -- that is, at the American people.

The New York Times

"I couldn't look straight at him for a while when we started dating," she giggles.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

She was looking straight at him.

The New Yorker

He was looking straight at me.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "look straight at" in writing, ensure the context clarifies the reason for the direct gaze. This can enhance the narrative by conveying emotions, intentions, or the significance of the subject being observed.

Common error

Avoid using "look straight at" when a more nuanced verb phrase would better convey the nature of the gaze. For instance, use "glance at" or "peek at" to indicate a brief or furtive look, instead of saying that you "look straight at" something.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look straight at" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating a direct and unwavering visual focus on a specific object or person. Ludwig confirms this usage is grammatically correct. Examples show it describing both physical actions and metaphorical confrontation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

21%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "look straight at" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe a direct and unwavering visual focus. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used across diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. While primarily neutral in register, its tone can shift based on the surrounding context, conveying emotions ranging from determination to confrontation. When writing, it's important to ensure the context clarifies the reason for the direct gaze to enhance the narrative's impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gaze directly at

Emphasizes a steady and prolonged visual focus.

stare intently at

Highlights a fixed and concentrated gaze, potentially conveying intensity or surprise.

fix one's eyes on

Implies a deliberate and unwavering focus, often suggesting determination.

focus one's gaze on

Highlights the act of intentionally directing visual attention.

look intently at

Similar to "stare intently at", but can imply greater interest or curiosity.

peer directly at

Suggests looking closely or with difficulty, often to discern something unclear.

regard steadily

Implies a calm and unwavering observation.

meet someone's gaze

Highlights reciprocal eye contact.

confront directly

Emphasizes facing something or someone without avoidance or hesitation.

face squarely

Similar to "confront directly", suggesting a direct and honest approach.

FAQs

How can I use "look straight at" in a sentence?

You can use "look straight at" to describe directing your gaze directly at something. For example, "The actor "looked straight at" the camera during the monologue."

What's a good alternative to "look straight at"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "gaze directly at", "stare intently at", or "fix one's eyes on".

Is there a difference between "look straight at" and "look directly at"?

"Look straight at" and "look directly at" are largely interchangeable. Both imply a direct gaze, but "look straight at" might suggest a slightly more unwavering or confrontational focus.

When should I not use "look straight at"?

Avoid using "look straight at" if the context requires a more nuanced description of the gaze, such as "glance at" for a brief look or "peek at" for a furtive look.