outrageous face

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "outrageous face" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a facial expression that is shocking, extreme, or difficult to believe, often in a humorous or exaggerated context. Example: "When she heard the news, her outrageous face was a mix of disbelief and amusement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

The actor's decision to play Native American sidekick Tonto, complete with outrageous face paint and a dead crow by way of a hat, has been criticised by US reviewers for unbalancing The Lone Ranger.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

He appeared in some dire comedies, such as In God We Tru$t (1980), Yellow Beard (1984) and Johnny Dangerously (1984), in which Boyle was encouraged to pull outrageous faces.

The Guardian

Like other aspects of fashion, celebrity specializes in blithe manipulativeness and outrageous volte-face, and operates according to completely self-contained, self-perpetuating criteria.

The New Yorker

Arendt writes: "This was outrageous, on the face of it, and also incomprehensible, since Kant's moral philosophy is so closely bound up with man's faculty of judgment, which rules out blind obedience".

The Guardian - Opinion

It's outrageous on its face.

Huffington Post

"President Bush's comparison of any Democrat to Nazi appeasers is offensive and outrageous on the face of it, especially in light of his failures in foreign policy," Clinton said.

Huffington Post

You can ponder the outrageous dangers that faced an earlier, benighted generation as you fill out that risk assessment.

The Guardian

"One would struggle to find examples as outrageous as those faced by passenger on these planes," Mr. Gianaris said.

The New York Times

And as any economist will tell you, you're more likely to be an outrageous flirt when faced with a thick market.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

An unruly bunch rode into town, terrorising the inhabitants, closing down the saloon and the general store, threatening to burn the whole place down until the unsmiling sheriff stands tough, refuses their outrageous demands and faces them down, forcing them into humiliating surrender.

BBC

Dressed in outrageous outfits, our faces made up in horror movie glamour, my friends and I would get high and dance until the music ended.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "outrageous face" to describe a facial expression that is intentionally exaggerated or humorous, often to convey shock or disbelief.

Common error

Avoid using "outrageous face" when a simpler description like "surprised look" or "shocked expression" would suffice. The term implies a deliberate or comical exaggeration, so ensure it aligns with the intended tone and context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "outrageous face" functions as a noun phrase modified by an adjective. "Outrageous" describes the type of face, emphasizing its shocking or unbelievable nature. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "outrageous face" is a grammatically correct but relatively uncommon way to describe a facial expression that is shocking, extreme, or difficult to believe. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While mainly found in news and media contexts, its informal tone makes it less suitable for formal writing. Alternative phrases like "shocking expression" or "exaggerated expression" may be more appropriate depending on the context and desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shocking expression

Replaces "outrageous" with a more general term for surprise or disapproval.

absurd visage

Emphasizes the ridiculous or nonsensical aspect of the facial expression.

unbelievable expression

Highlights the incredulity conveyed by the face.

astonishing look

Focuses on the surprise and amazement evident in the face.

extreme facial expression

Highlights the intensity and exaggeration in the face.

wild look

Suggests a face marked by excitement or agitation.

exaggerated expression

Emphasizes the over-the-top nature of the facial display.

histrionic face

Implies a theatrical or overly dramatic facial expression.

bizarre countenance

Focuses on the odd or unusual appearance of the face.

unrestrained facial expression

Highlights the lack of control or inhibition in the facial display.

FAQs

How can I describe someone's face when they are very surprised?

You can use phrases like "shocked expression", "surprised look", or even the more exaggerated phrase "outrageous face" if they are acting in a comical or theatrical way.

What is the difference between an "outrageous face" and a "surprised face"?

A "surprised face" is a general reaction to something unexpected. An "outrageous face" implies a more exaggerated, often comical or theatrical expression of surprise or disbelief. It suggests the person is hamming it up or being deliberately over-the-top.

Is "outrageous face" a common expression?

No, "outrageous face" is not a particularly common expression. There are many other ways to say similar things, such as "shocked expression" or "exaggerated expression", which are more frequently used.

Can "outrageous face" be used in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "outrageous face" is generally too informal and playful for formal writing. Opt for more neutral and precise descriptions of facial expressions in academic or professional contexts.