mouth set

USAGE SUMMARY

"mouth set" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe the position or expression of someone's mouth, often indicating determination or a specific emotional state. Example: "With her mouth set in a firm line, she prepared to deliver her speech." Alternative expressions include "lips pressed," "mouth clenched," or "jaw set."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Her mouth set grimly.

The New Yorker

Her face was hard, her mouth set.

The New York Times

My eyebrows were plucked to a single arched line, my mouth set in a jaded moue.

The New York Times

Ms. Massenet's slim mouth, set in a perfect-oval-shaped face, puckers at such a refusal.

The New York Times

His mouth set in a grin that was ready to tighten and grow ugly.

The New York Times - Magazine

It is just an open, talking mouth, set in a sea of darkness.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

His mouth sets in a determined line.

The Guardian - Music

I was also a bit of a coward, scared of putting dried vegetable matter in my mouth, setting it on fire and then sucking on it.

Forbes

Most of the men's suits had a baggy, well-worn look, and there seemed to be a great many mouths set in expressions of permanent disappointment.

The New Yorker

And then there's the repulsive triplewart seadevils, covered with spines and furrows and warts, their large mouths set in a perpetual frown.

The New York Times - Science

In fact, the more I yell, the more I pelt them with statistics and examples of everyday sexism, the faster I see their mouths set in steely resolve as they decide I'm simply proving what they've always believed to be true: feminists are mouthy man-haters.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "mouth set" to concisely convey determination, disapproval, or emotional control through facial expression. This phrase is particularly effective in narrative writing to quickly establish a character's mood or intention.

Common error

Avoid using "mouth set" when a more nuanced description of the character's emotion is needed. While it can convey determination or disapproval, it may not be suitable for portraying subtle feelings like sadness or anxiety. Choose more specific descriptive language to better capture the intended emotional state.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mouth set" functions as a descriptive element, typically modifying a noun (person or character) to indicate their emotional state or intention. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

7%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "mouth set" is a versatile phrase used to describe a person's expression, often indicating determination, disapproval, or emotional control. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral in register, it is important to consider the emotional context to ensure the phrase accurately conveys the intended meaning. Alternative expressions like "lips pursed" or "jaw clenched" can provide more nuanced descriptions if needed. Using "mouth set" effectively can enhance narrative writing by quickly establishing a character's mood or intention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mouth tightened

Similar to "mouth set" but emphasizes the action of tightening the mouth muscles.

lips pressed together

Highlights the physical action of pressing the lips, suggesting restraint or seriousness.

lips pursed

Focuses specifically on the action of tightening the lips, suggesting disapproval or determination.

mouth formed a line

Describes the shape of the mouth, indicating a controlled or stern emotion.

jaw clenched

Emphasizes the tension in the jaw, indicating anger or stress rather than just the mouth's position.

grim expression

Focuses on the overall expression of the face, particularly its severity or unhappiness.

resolute expression

Highlights a firm and unwavering expression.

face hardened

Broadens the expression to include the entire face, implying a stronger emotional shift.

determined look

Shifts the focus to the overall appearance, emphasizing resolve and purpose.

serious demeanor

Broadens the description to include the whole manner and attitude of the person.

FAQs

How can I describe a similar expression to "mouth set"?

You can use alternatives like "lips pursed", "jaw clenched", or "mouth tightened" to describe similar expressions of determination or disapproval.

Is "mouth set" formal or informal language?

"Mouth set" is considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding text and the situation being described.

What does it imply when someone's "mouth is set"?

When someone's "mouth is set", it often implies determination, resolve, or disapproval. It suggests the person is holding back or controlling their emotions and is ready to face a challenge or disagree with something.

Can "mouth set" be used to describe positive emotions?

While "mouth set" is often associated with negative or serious emotions, it can also describe a focused or determined expression in a positive context, such as someone preparing for a competition or concentrating on a task.