pointed glance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pointed glance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a look that is sharp, direct, or intended to convey a specific message or emotion, often implying intensity or focus. Example: "She gave him a pointed glance, making it clear that she disapproved of his actions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Dorn seemed about to say something until Griffin eased him off with a pointed glance.

The New York Times - Magazine

"Some candidates need to work for a living," sniped a catty young Tory in a navy suit, shooting a pointed glance at Lucy Powell, Labour's energetic contender for the seat vacated by Tony Lloyd, the former Labour party chair who has stood down to run as the city's police and crime commissioner (PCC).

The Guardian

"Nobody mentions her," said the woman, who gave her name as Maria, with a pointed glance before darting away.

The New York Times

(I did like when Obama responded that he did indeed know the difference between a "tactic" and a "strategy" -- and even threw a pointed glance at McCain when he next used the word "strategy").

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

It means she's had colleagues in previous workplaces make pointed glances at the clock when she's had to come in later because of her health, as well as derogatory comments about her commitment to the job.

The Guardian

The production, directed by Alan Souza, exacerbates the play's shortcomings, ramping up the volume on the songs by Jason Howland (music) and Mindi Dickstein (lyrics) and having actors telegraph the sharp edges of Allan Knee's book with many raised eyebrows and pointed glances.

The New York Times

Point to its pointed teeth.

The New Yorker

Although his dig is less pointed than Updike's, Murakami will have known the effect that even such a glancing nod to the Swedish Academy will have had on his readership: in Japan, fans have taken to gathering in cafes with champagne on ice on the day that the news comes from Stockholm.

The Guardian - Books

Benigni pointed.

The New Yorker

Harry pointed.

The New York Times - Magazine

Caius pointed.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pointed glance" when you want to convey a look that is not only direct but also carries a specific, often critical or meaningful message. It's more impactful than a simple glance.

Common error

Avoid using "pointed glance" when simply describing someone looking in a direction without any implied meaning or intention. Use "glance" or "look" instead, for neutral observations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pointed glance" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a specific type of look characterized by its intention to communicate a particular message, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pointed glance" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to describe a direct, meaningful look. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's most commonly found in News & Media contexts, functioning to convey a specific message or emotion non-verbally. While not overly frequent, it provides a precise way to describe a look that carries intention. When using this phrase, ensure that the context implies a deliberate communication beyond simple observation. Alternatives like "sharp look" or "telling gaze" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sharp look

Focuses on the intensity and directness of the look, potentially indicating disapproval or scrutiny.

meaningful look

Emphasizes the significance or intention behind the glance, focusing on the communication aspect.

loaded look

Indicates that the glance is full of unspoken meaning or emotion.

significant gaze

Similar to "meaningful look", but implies a longer, more intense observation.

knowing look

Suggests that the look conveys shared understanding or secret knowledge.

piercing gaze

Implies a very intense and penetrating look, often making the recipient uncomfortable.

expressive look

Highlights the ability of the glance to communicate emotions or thoughts effectively.

telling gaze

Suggests that the look reveals something important or gives away a secret.

deliberate gaze

Implies the look was intentional and calculated, meant to have a specific effect.

direct stare

Emphasizes the straightforward and unwavering nature of the look.

FAQs

What does "pointed glance" mean?

A "pointed glance" refers to a sharp, direct look intended to convey a specific message or emotion, often implying disapproval, warning, or a shared understanding.

What can I say instead of "pointed glance"?

You can use alternatives like "sharp look", "meaningful look", or "telling gaze" depending on the context.

How do I use "pointed glance" in a sentence?

Example: "She gave him a "pointed glance", letting him know she disapproved of his behavior." The phrase is typically used to describe someone conveying a clear message nonverbally.

What's the difference between "pointed glance" and "quick look"?

A "quick look" is a brief observation, whereas a "pointed glance" is intentional and carries a specific message or emotion beyond simple observation.