reserved smile

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "reserved smile" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to describe a polite, but not overly expressive, smile. For example: "She greeted him with a reserved smile."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

"I thought he did everything I asked him to do," Wilkens said with a reserved smile.

The New York Times - Sports

If, however, you are a very serious stern individual, showing your naturally reserved smile (and not a fake, cheesy grin) will portray your seriousness.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Asked whether he also does yoga to build strength and agility for his stage shows, Mr. Cohen, his demeanor courtly but reserved, smiled and replied, "That is my yoga".

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Heath has been hauled over the coals for having a reserved personality, smiling too much, being a bachelor, etc. Finally he appeared on the B.B.C. program "Panorama" He came out of this ordeal with top honors.

The New Yorker

He throws himself into every note, gesticulating and emoting wildly, while Antony weaves magic around him, hands fluttering at his lips like a starstuck little girl, still reserved but smiling.

The Guardian - Music

She also smiles, almost a Mona Lisa smile: reserved, enigmatic, but awakening a kind of memory of something that has long lain dormant - tenderness, perhaps.

The Guardian

Because when I'd say 20th Street again, they'd give me that gentle smile reserved for people in their 30's who have never left home.

The New York Times - Arts

As she makes introductions, faces freeze into the sort of smile reserved for a boss who is omnipresent while not physically being there they reflect a genuine willingness to please the teacher and perhaps a touch of fear.

Forbes

As a result, you should reserve your smiles for moments of real joy and hilarity, not for commonplace happenings.

WikiHow

"All right," she said, with that smile she reserved for the sleepy, silly midafternoon.

The New Yorker

And on this particular Sunday, shortly before the recent Colombian election, candidates for Colombia's House of Representatives (which has a seat reserved to represent expatriates) smiled from campaign posters along the street.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "reserved smile" when you want to convey a sense of politeness and emotional control, rather than exuberance or overt joy.

Common error

Avoid using "reserved smile" in every situation; it can make characters seem detached or insincere. Vary your descriptions to reflect a wider range of emotions and social contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "reserved smile" functions as a descriptive element, modifying a noun. It characterizes the smile as being restrained or subtle. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is correct and usable in English, typically used to describe a polite but not overly expressive smile.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "reserved smile" is a useful descriptor for a subtle and polite smile, often indicating emotional control or formality. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically sound and readily usable in English writing. While not extremely common, appearing more frequently in news and media, it provides a nuanced way to portray a character's expression, especially when conveying politeness rather than exuberance. Remember to vary your descriptive language and avoid overuse to maintain engaging and authentic portrayals.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subtle smile

Emphasizes the faint and delicate nature of the smile.

restrained smile

Highlights the controlled and subdued quality of the smile.

slight smile

Focuses on the small degree or extent of the smile.

enigmatic smile

Suggests the smile is mysterious and difficult to interpret.

wry smile

Indicates a smile with a hint of irony or amusement.

polite smile

Highlights the courteous and formal nature of the smile.

understated smile

Emphasizes the subtle and low-key quality of the smile.

contained smile

Focuses on the suppression of stronger emotions within the smile.

guarded smile

Suggests the smile is cautious and protective of true feelings.

formal smile

Indicates a smile appropriate for formal or professional settings.

FAQs

How can I use "reserved smile" in a sentence?

You can use "reserved smile" to describe someone's expression, such as: "She offered a "reserved smile" when introduced." or "He greeted them with a "reserved smile", indicating politeness but not necessarily warmth."

What does "reserved smile" mean?

"Reserved smile" describes a smile that is restrained, subtle, and not overly expressive. It suggests a polite or formal demeanor, often indicating emotional control or a lack of genuine enthusiasm.

Which is more appropriate, "reserved smile" or "broad smile"?

The choice depends on the context. "Reserved smile" is suitable for formal or polite situations, while a "broad smile" indicates genuine happiness or enthusiasm.

What are some other words to describe a smile that is not overly expressive?

Alternatives include "subtle smile", "slight smile", or "restrained smile". These phrases convey a similar sense of understatement and emotional control.