pleading look

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pleading look" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when someone looks at you with an expression that is asking for sympathy, understanding, or forgiveness. For example, you could say "She gave me a pleading look as if she didn't want to be scolded."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Approaching the microphone, she tossed Ms. Odell a pleading look.

The New York Times

The eyes are large, hazel or brown, with a mild hound-like pleading look.

Wikipedia

She had a begging, pleading look on her face, wanting to go and play, just like the other girls.

Huffington Post

BEN (pleading): Look, honey, sometimes people say things in the heat of a campaign that they don't really mean or haven't thought through.

Huffington Post

Draw! Stunned by such a fanatical onslaught, Barcza could barely get up from his chair, but Bobby nonchalantly suggested: 'Let's have a look at the game from the beginning...'.. Barcza then began pleading: 'Look, I have a wife and children.

Wikipedia

Sarwari replied with a pleading look, holding up an empty palm.

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Murray, on the other hand, tends to give in to poor body language and pleading looks to his box.

The New York Times

Overcoming Reggina 3-0, Lazio fans turned forlornly to the Stadio Renato Curi, pleading looks all round.

The Guardian - Sport

Gone were the mime dances and, with them, the thing that most makes Indian dance look strange to us, its "facialism": the rolling eyes, the fluttering eyebrows, the coy looks and pleading looks and angry looks.

The New Yorker

His pleading looks to camera would get her sympathy (and our grudging admiration for duping her), but it was a cheap laugh.

The Guardian - Film

He said she pleaded, "Look after our children".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pleading look" to convey a sense of desperation or earnest request in a character's expression. It's particularly effective in emotional scenes to highlight vulnerability or need.

Common error

Avoid using "pleading look" repeatedly in close succession when describing a character's expressions. Vary your descriptions with other, more nuanced terms such as "beseeching look" or "imploring stare" to keep your writing engaging and avoid monotony.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pleading look" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb (e.g., "gave a pleading look") or as a descriptive element modifying a subject. It describes the specific quality of a visual expression. As indicated by Ludwig AI, this phrase is usable and correct in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

16%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pleading look" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a visual manifestation of a desperate or earnest request. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and its frequent appearance in diverse sources—particularly in News & Media—underscores its versatility. While generally neutral in register, "pleading look" carries a strong emotional charge. When crafting your writing, remember this phrase is best used to depict scenarios where characters seek support or understanding, and should not be overused by relying on alternative expressions such as "supplicating gaze", or "entreating expression".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

supplicating gaze

Emphasizes the act of begging through one's eyes; more formal.

entreating expression

Highlights the persuasive attempt in the facial expression; more formal.

imploring stare

Stresses the intensity and urgency of the appeal.

begging eyes

Focuses on the eyes as the vehicle of the plea; more direct.

desperate glance

Conveys a sense of hopelessness or urgency in the look.

beseeching look

A synonym that also suggests earnest or humble request; slightly formal.

hopeful gaze

Focuses on the hope for a positive response behind the look.

longing expression

Highlights the desire or yearning present in the look.

yearning glance

Implies a strong, often sentimental, desire in the look.

appealing look

Describes a look designed to attract sympathy or assistance; less intense.

FAQs

How can I describe a "pleading look" in more detail?

To elaborate on a "pleading look", you might describe the specific facial features involved, such as widened eyes, a furrowed brow, or a trembling lip. You could also focus on the emotional context, such as desperation or fear, that contributes to the overall impression.

What emotions are commonly associated with a "pleading look"?

A "pleading look" is typically associated with emotions such as desperation, fear, hope, and vulnerability. It often suggests that the person is seeking help, forgiveness, or understanding.

What's the difference between a "pleading look" and a demanding one?

A "pleading look" expresses humility and a request for assistance or leniency, whereas a demanding look conveys expectation and entitlement. The former suggests vulnerability, while the latter implies authority.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "pleading look" in writing?

The phrase "pleading look" is appropriate when describing a character's emotional state and their desire for something, often sympathy or help. It is effective in scenes where vulnerability and need are emphasized.