questioning glance

USAGE SUMMARY

"questioning glance" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a glance or look that expresses curiosity, doubt, or uncertainty. Example: She gave him a questioning glance when he suggested going to the abandoned house.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

I take it, raising my eyes in a questioning glance.

The Guardian

And so when she gets the Look -- a raised eyebrow, a questioning glance -- she is not surprised.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

In a concert of works by Doug Varone, dancers pulse and eddy across the stage, waver in contemplative stillness, trace relationships through intimate gestures and questioning glances.

The New Yorker

When he entered his own laboratory, he saw the questioning glances from those who depended upon him to maintain their jobs and support their training.

Science Magazine

But we can see in her questioning glances at the increasingly mulish Antoine that she has her doubts.

The Guardian - Film

As my child sat crying in a Walmart grocery cart, I helplessly tried to calm him down while ignoring the judgmental glances of those questioning my parenting skills.

Huffington Post

Do you think you might be interested?" The doctor glanced over at me, questioning.

The New York Times

The results led psychologists to begin questioning what else people might detect in a glance.

Science Magazine

Most everything about this add-on is pretty impressive at a first glance, although I've found myself questioning ease-of-use.

TechCrunch

These two quintessential functions of art, commemorating and questioning, seem to exist on opposite poles at first glance, but they are clearly part of one vital patriotic continuum.

Huffington Post

With his back turned to us and his distrustful glance over the shoulder he may be questioning our commitment to saving those poor and needy in ag country that congratulates itself for its religious roots.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "questioning glance" to subtly convey a character's uncertainty or curiosity without explicitly stating their thoughts.

Common error

Avoid using "questioning glance" too frequently in your writing. Overuse can make your prose feel repetitive and less impactful. Consider varying your descriptions of characters' expressions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "questioning glance" functions as a noun phrase, describing a type of look. According to Ludwig, it is a correct and usable phrase in English, indicating a glance filled with inquiry or uncertainty.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "questioning glance" is a grammatically sound and readily understandable expression used to depict a look filled with inquiry or doubt. As Ludwig confirms, it's considered a correct phrase. Its primary function is descriptive, adding nuance to character portrayal by subtly conveying internal thoughts and feelings. While relatively infrequent, "questioning glance" appears most commonly in news and media contexts and carries a neutral tone, making it suitable for diverse writing styles. Consider alternatives such as "inquisitive gaze" or "dubious look" to prevent repetition and maintain engaging prose.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

inquisitive gaze

Replaces "glance" with "gaze", suggesting a longer, more intent look.

dubious look

Focuses on the doubt conveyed by the look.

skeptical gaze

Highlights the skepticism conveyed by the look.

curious stare

Emphasizes the curiosity behind the look.

incredulous expression

Shifts from a glance to a general expression of disbelief.

quizzical look

Uses "quizzical" to describe the look, suggesting mild amusement or puzzlement.

probing stare

Suggests the stare is meant to uncover something.

suspicious look

Implies a lack of trust in the expression.

wondering gaze

Conveys a sense of awe and surprise with the look.

querying look

A more formal way to say questioning look, focusing on the act of questioning.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "questioning glance" in a sentence?

Use "questioning glance" to subtly show a character's doubt or curiosity. For example, "She cast a questioning glance at him after he proposed such a risky idea."

What are some alternatives to "questioning glance"?

Consider using alternatives like "inquisitive gaze", "dubious look", or "skeptical gaze" to add variety to your writing.

Is it appropriate to use "questioning glance" in formal writing?

Yes, "questioning glance" is appropriate for formal writing, but ensure it fits the tone and context. It's more common in narrative or descriptive writing than in technical reports.

What does a "questioning glance" typically imply?

A "questioning glance" typically implies curiosity, doubt, or a request for clarification. It suggests the person is seeking more information or expressing reservations without using words.