peculiar face

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "peculiar face" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a face that is unusual or distinctive in some way, often implying that it stands out or is not typical. Example: "She had a peculiar face that intrigued everyone she met, with features that seemed to tell a story of their own."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Some dysmorphic features were noted, like a peculiar face (down sloping frontal area and thick hair) combined with axial hyponia, slight peripheral hypertonia and hyperreflexia.

Human Molecular Genetics

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

When the people were weary during the migration, powerful spirit-beings known as kachinas came and danced until someone made fun of their peculiar faces and insulted them.

Encyclopedia Britannica

That scientist is also deeply involved in the project, talking through plot ideas, checking five successive drafts of each script for accuracy, even sending the actors videos of himself pulling peculiar faces.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Agency: Saatchi & Saatchi Director: Chris Palmer Every parent will almost certainly remember the peculiar faces pulled by their babies when filling their nappies and – if they've forgotten – they'll be reminded by this extraordinary video almanac.

The Guardian

In the present case, there was neither a history of consanguinity in the parents nor peculiar faces in other family members.

BMC Ophthalmology

The dog sat at attention, watching the ceremony with a peculiar expression on its face, a look of intense interest.

The New York Times

When he pronounced the sentence on Mr. Forrester he had a peculiar expression on his face due to the fact that, for the first time in some years, he had an erection as he spoke; he had an involuntary orgasm.

The New Yorker

One day, the teacher had a peculiar look on her face when I came to pick Albert up.

Huffington Post

10 54 - Seth Colter Walls: Brit Hume: McCain had a "peculiar" expression on his face while listening to Obama.

Huffington Post

I felt I was in some peculiar way almost re-living Fred Astaire's role in Funny Face.

Huffington Post

The present results cannot determine whether the later positivity has characteristics peculiar to face perception.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character or subject, use "peculiar face" to subtly suggest an unusual or striking appearance that might hint at deeper, less obvious qualities. This is more effective than simply stating the character is strange or different.

Common error

Avoid using "peculiar face" without providing further details. While it indicates something is unusual, it doesn't paint a vivid picture. Instead of just saying someone has a "peculiar face", describe which features are peculiar and why.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "peculiar face" functions as a descriptive term, acting as a noun phrase modified by an adjective. It is used to attribute a specific characteristic to a person's or animal's appearance, denoting that their face is unusual or distinctive in some way. As confirmed by Ludwig, the expression is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "peculiar face" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe an unusual or distinctive facial appearance. While not extremely common, as noted by Ludwig, it appears in reputable sources such as The New York Times, The Guardian and encyclopedias, making it suitable for various contexts. When using this phrase, it's best to provide specific details about what makes the face peculiar to create a vivid image for the reader. Alternatives like "strange visage" or "unusual countenance" can be used for a more formal tone. Though correct, always ensure the context warrants its use to avoid vagueness or overuse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strange visage

Replaces "peculiar" with "strange" and "face" with the more formal "visage", emphasizing the odd or unfamiliar aspect of the facial appearance.

unusual countenance

Substitutes "peculiar" with "unusual" and "face" with "countenance", giving a more refined and slightly antiquated feel to the description.

odd facial features

Focuses on the specific features that make the face peculiar, rather than the overall impression.

distinctive facial appearance

Highlights the unique and easily recognizable quality of the face, moving away from any negative connotation of "peculiar".

remarkable facial aspect

Emphasizes that the face is worthy of attention and easily noticeable.

unique facial characteristics

Focuses on the individuality of the facial traits.

atypical facial features

Stresses the deviation from the norm.

curious physiognomy

Uses a more technical term, "physiognomy", to refer to the overall appearance of the face, implying a sense of intrigue.

eccentric facial aspect

Highlights that the face diverges from conventions of what is ordinary or typical.

singular facial traits

Uses a more formal, emphasizing the uniqueness of facial traits.

FAQs

How can I use "peculiar face" in a sentence?

You can use "peculiar face" to describe someone's unusual or distinctive facial features. For example: "The character in the novel had a "peculiar face", which made him easily recognizable."

What can I say instead of "peculiar face"?

You can use alternatives like "strange visage", "unusual countenance", or "distinctive facial appearance" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "peculiar face" or "peculiar facial"?

"Peculiar face" is the more common and grammatically sound phrase. "Peculiar facial" isn't standard English; you would typically use an alternative construction instead of using that phrase.

What connotations does "peculiar face" carry?

The phrase "peculiar face" often suggests an unusual or odd appearance, but it doesn't necessarily carry negative connotations. It can simply imply that someone's facial features are unique or noteworthy.