see their faces

USAGE SUMMARY

"see their faces" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used when you want to express a desire, or the possibility, of seeing someone. For example, "I’d love to see their faces when I tell them the good news."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I see their faces.

The New Yorker

We can't see their faces.

The New York Times - Arts

"I can still vividly see their faces.

Independent

Can't see their faces at all.

The New Yorker

She could see their faces.

The New York Times

We didn't see their faces.

The Guardian - Opinion

We can't see their faces, their "story".

The New Yorker

"I didn't see their faces," says Nzgira.

Independent

"To see their faces -- it's sad".

The New York Times

Never got to see their faces.

The New Yorker

I see their faces better," she said.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "see their faces" when you want to emphasize the emotional impact or significance of observing someone's facial expressions in a particular situation. For example, describe the joy of "seeing their faces" light up upon receiving a gift.

Common error

While "see their faces" is generally acceptable, it can sometimes sound too informal in highly professional or academic writing. Consider using more formal alternatives like "observe their expressions" or "discern their reactions" to maintain a sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "see their faces" functions as a verbal phrase expressing the action of visually perceiving and recognizing individuals. As supported by Ludwig, it's a correct and usable expression. The phrase often carries an emotional or relational element, focusing on recognition and reaction.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "see their faces" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that describes the act of visually perceiving and recognizing individuals. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability across various contexts, particularly within news and media. While generally neutral in register, it can convey emotional depth, making it a powerful tool for descriptive and narrative writing. When aiming for a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "observe their expressions".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

look at their faces

Focuses on the act of looking rather than necessarily recognizing or understanding.

observe their expressions

Emphasizes noticing and interpreting the emotions conveyed through facial features.

make out their features

Highlights the effort required to distinguish facial features, especially in poor conditions.

catch a glimpse of their faces

Suggests a brief or fleeting view.

recognize their countenances

Uses a more formal term for faces, implying a degree of familiarity.

view their visages

A more literary and less common way to refer to seeing someone's face.

behold their faces

A more formal and somewhat archaic way of saying "see their faces".

witness their faces

Emphasizes being present to see their faces, perhaps in a significant moment.

have a look at their faces

A more casual and conversational way to express the act of seeing their faces.

study their faces

Suggests a careful and deliberate observation of their facial features.

FAQs

What does it mean to "see their faces"?

To "see their faces" means to visually perceive and recognize the faces of individuals, often implying an emotional connection or understanding of their reactions.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "see their faces"?

It's appropriate to use "see their faces" in a variety of contexts, from describing personal interactions to reporting on events where facial expressions are significant. It works well in narratives and descriptive writing.

What are some alternative ways to say "see their faces"?

You can use alternatives like "observe their expressions", "make out their features", or "catch a glimpse of their faces" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

How can I use "see their faces" in a sentence?

You can use "see their faces" in a sentence to describe the act of looking at people's faces and noticing their expressions, such as, "I love to see their faces when they open their presents."