resigned expression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "resigned expression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a facial expression that conveys acceptance or submission to a situation, often one that is undesirable or disappointing. Example: "She looked at the news with a resigned expression, knowing there was nothing she could do to change the outcome."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Arthritically gnarled, with the beaten, resigned expression of a man who expects nothing to go his way, Horse is not on the surface promising showbiz material.

The New York Times

As Gabi turned away, he didn't even look that distraught; instead he wore a resigned expression that seemed to say: "Well, that was inevitable".

The Guardian - Sport

He was a paunchy man, sedentary and diabetic, with thinning hair and glasses and a resigned expression.

The New York Times - Magazine

"No," Claire said, with a resigned expression.

The New Yorker

Flavio has the resigned expression of a squadron leader sending his men out on a doomed mission.

The Guardian - Travel

As the veteran defender sat on the turf with a resigned expression on his face, he made no protest over the decision by the referee Steve Bennett.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

"Did they bribe the head of the court?" On the opposite side of the glass, two women in uniform were listening with resigned expressions suggesting that she had been at it for a while.

The New Yorker

Now, it feels like it's only a matter of days before the remaining members sprout beards, beer bellies and resigned expressions, heirs to the three sad Take That members, trying to fill the hole left by their absent comrades by squeezing into a too-small bed.

Independent

She looked much older than the mother of a seventeen-year-old, and had a resigned, desperate expression as she pointed to the flooded area where she had once had a decent home and small farm.

Huffington Post

Mr. Thompson's expression was resigned as he listened to Ms. Cheatam's bitter words.

The New York Times

"I know the money will come in time," said Ledee, resigned to his mild expression of protest.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "resigned expression" when you want to convey a sense of quiet acceptance of something unpleasant or inevitable, but be mindful of overusing it; consider alternative phrases for varied writing.

Common error

Avoid using "resigned expression" when the intended meaning is genuine agreement or enthusiasm. Resignation implies acceptance of something undesirable, not active approval.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "resigned expression" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective + noun combination. It modifies a noun (often a person or character) by attributing to them a specific facial expression that indicates acceptance of something unavoidable. Ludwig provides examples in which "resigned expression" is used to characterize figures in news articles or literary works.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "resigned expression" is a useful descriptive tool for conveying a sense of quiet acceptance of something unpleasant or inevitable. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appears in reputable sources such as The New York Times and The Guardian. While its usage is not overly common, it provides a specific and nuanced way to depict a character's emotional state, indicating a lack of resistance to an unfavorable situation. When writing, it's important to use "resigned expression" accurately, ensuring it reflects genuine acceptance rather than simple sadness or agreement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

defeated look

Focuses on the visual aspect of defeat rather than the acceptance of a situation.

accepting demeanor

Highlights the attitude of acceptance, minimizing the emotional aspect.

submissive countenance

Emphasizes the act of submission, often in the face of authority or unfavorable circumstances.

acquiescent gaze

Focuses on the eyes and the act of reluctantly agreeing.

fatalistic air

Implies a belief that events are predetermined and inevitable.

weary aspect

Highlights the tiredness and exhaustion associated with resignation.

forlorn appearance

Emphasizes the sadness and hopelessness in one's expression.

disappointed visage

Focuses on the disappointment in the facial expression.

unprotesting face

Highlights the lack of opposition or resistance shown in one's expression.

passive outlook

Focuses on the general attitude rather than a specific expression, suggesting inaction and acceptance.

FAQs

How can I describe a facial expression similar to a resigned one?

You could use phrases such as "defeated look", "accepting demeanor", or "submissive countenance" to convey similar nuances.

What does it mean when someone has a resigned expression?

A "resigned expression" typically indicates that the person is accepting a situation, often negative, without resistance or protest. It suggests they feel powerless to change the outcome.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use the phrase "resigned expression"?

It's fitting in situations where characters or individuals are facing unavoidable hardships, disappointments, or unfavorable circumstances. It's often used in narratives to depict a character's internal state.

Is "resigned expression" the same as "sad expression"?

While there may be overlap, "resigned expression" carries a stronger sense of acceptance and lack of hope, whereas "sad expression" primarily conveys sorrow or unhappiness. You can have a sad expression without necessarily being resigned to the situation.