neutral expression

USAGE SUMMARY

"neutral expression" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It refers to a facial expression or tone of voice that does not convey a specific emotion or sentiment. Here is an example sentence: "She tried to keep a neutral expression on her face while delivering the news, but her wavering voice gave away her true feelings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Actors could express different highly arousing emotions, namely happiness, disgust, anger, or a neutral expression.

Plosone

A completely neutral expression.

The New Yorker

"Practice wearing a neutral expression".

The New Yorker

Rita pants with a "neutral expression, processing the information".

The New Yorker

These must display "a neutral expression, with your mouth closed, eyes open and clearly visible".

The Guardian - Opinion

His face is nearly always arranged in a neutral expression — the focussed blank of either irony or testiness.

The New Yorker

As I walked around wearing what I considered a neutral expression, strangers would often shout, "What's the matter, honey?

The New York Times - Books

Delicately tanned, big-eyed, and full-lipped, Zhukova usually wears an entirely neutral expression reminiscent of an empty tide pool.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

But couldn't the Republicans have used the word "watchdog," which is the standard term, or at least found some other gender-neutral expression?

Huffington Post

Both contained many of our gender-neutral expression gene set.

G3: Genes, Genomes, Genetics

None of the participants was observed to smile or produce any recognizable non-neutral expression.

Cerebral Cortex

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "neutral expression" when describing a face or demeanor devoid of discernible emotion, particularly in formal contexts or when objectivity is important.

Common error

Avoid using "neutral expression" when you actually mean indifference or apathy. A "neutral expression" simply lacks discernible emotion, while indifference implies a lack of interest or concern.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "neutral expression" typically functions as a descriptive adjective modifying a noun (usually "face" or "demeanor"). It indicates a lack of discernible emotion. Ludwig examples show usage across various contexts, confirming this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Science

36%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "neutral expression" is a commonly used and grammatically correct way to describe a face or demeanor lacking any discernible emotion. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent use across diverse contexts, especially in news, science and guides. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with your intended meaning, and avoid confusing it with indifference. For variations, you can consider "blank expression", "impassive face", or other related terms based on context. Overall, understanding the nuances of "neutral expression" will enhance your ability to convey objectivity and composure in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

expressionless face

Directly states the absence of expression, denoting a lack of emotional communication.

blank expression

Emphasizes the lack of any discernible emotion, suggesting a face devoid of feeling.

unemotional face

Highlights the absence of emotional display, indicating a calm demeanor.

impassive face

Highlights the lack of emotional display, indicating a composed or detached demeanor.

unreadable face

Focuses on the difficulty of discerning any emotion, implying hidden feelings or deliberate concealment.

noncommittal look

Suggests an avoidance of expressing any particular opinion or emotion.

poker face

Implies a deliberate attempt to conceal emotions, often in strategic situations.

deadpan expression

Highlights a deliberately emotionless or humorous expression.

stoic face

Refers to an appearance where emotion is repressed or not displayed.

vacant stare

Emphasizes the lack of focus or emotional depth, suggesting a state of detachment or absent-mindedness.

FAQs

How can I use "neutral expression" in a sentence?

You can use "neutral expression" to describe someone's face or demeanor when they are not showing any particular emotion. For example, "The diplomat maintained a "neutral expression" during the tense negotiations."

What's the difference between a "neutral expression" and a "blank expression"?

While similar, a "neutral expression" suggests a deliberate lack of emotional display, whereas a "blank expression" might imply a lack of awareness or understanding.

When is it appropriate to use the term "neutral expression"?

It's appropriate when describing someone attempting to conceal their true feelings, or when a situation requires impartiality. It is common when people want to show a "poker face" or "impassive face".

What are some alternative phrases for "neutral expression"?

Depending on the context, you could use "blank expression", "impassive face", or "unreadable face" to convey a similar meaning.