raised eyebrow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "raised eyebrow" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to indicate skepticism, surprise, or disapproval. Example: Her unexpected decision raised a few eyebrows among her colleagues. Alternative expressions include "quizzical look" and "skeptical glance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Lifestyle

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

He rules the movie with a single raised eyebrow.

The Guardian - Film

A raised eyebrow.

The Guardian - Books

His raised eyebrow suggests incredulity.

The New York Times - Arts

A silver raised eyebrow, perhaps?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

That raised eyebrow is going away.

The New York Times

He saved his raised eyebrow for me.

The New York Times

A raised eyebrow at Vanessa Redgrave.

The Guardian

A pause and a raised eyebrow.

The New York Times

I persevered despite my mum's raised eyebrow.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

(To be fair, the dad manages a raised eyebrow).

The New Yorker

Instead, there is a snotty remark, a raised eyebrow.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "raised eyebrow" to subtly convey skepticism, surprise, or disapproval without being overtly critical or confrontational. It's particularly effective in narrative writing to add nuance to a character's reaction.

Common error

Avoid using "raised eyebrow" excessively in formal or academic writing. Opt for more direct and descriptive language to express skepticism or disagreement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "raised eyebrow" functions primarily as a noun, often used as the subject or object of a sentence to describe a non-verbal expression. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage as seen in the examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Lifestyle

15%

Arts

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

5%

Science

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "raised eyebrow" is a common and versatile expression used to convey skepticism, surprise, or disapproval. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and widely accepted. Predominantly found in News & Media, Lifestyle, and Arts contexts, this expression adds a subtle layer of communication, often hinting at unspoken thoughts or reactions. While its informality makes it less suitable for strictly formal writing, understanding its nuances can significantly enhance narrative and descriptive writing. Remember to use "raised eyebrow" judiciously and consider "skeptical look" or "disapproving glance" as alternatives when appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

skeptical look

Focuses on the visual expression of doubt or disbelief.

incredulous gaze

Emphasizes the inability to believe something.

disapproving glance

Highlights a negative judgment or lack of approval.

quizzical expression

Suggests mild confusion or curiosity.

doubting look

Directly conveys uncertainty or lack of trust.

look of surprise

Focuses on astonishment or amazement.

show of disbelief

Highlights the outward expression of not believing.

gesture of skepticism

Emphasizes the physical action indicating doubt.

hint of disapproval

Suggests a subtle sign of negative judgment.

tacit expression of disbelief

Implies a non-verbal indication of incredulity.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone gives you a "raised eyebrow"?

A "raised eyebrow" typically indicates skepticism, surprise, or mild disapproval. It's a non-verbal cue that suggests the person is questioning something you've said or done.

How can I use "raised eyebrow" in a sentence?

You can use "raised eyebrow" to describe someone's reaction. For example: "She responded to his outrageous claim with a "skeptical look"." or "His suggestion was met with several "disapproving glances"".

What are some alternatives to saying "raised eyebrow"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "skeptical look", "incredulous gaze", or "disapproving glance". These alternatives offer slightly different nuances of meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "raised eyebrow" in formal writing?

While "raised eyebrow" is widely understood, it may be too informal for academic or professional writing. Consider using more direct and descriptive language to express skepticism or disagreement in those contexts.