sheepish look

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sheepish look" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a facial expression that conveys embarrassment or self-consciousness, often in a lighthearted or endearing way. Example: "When he realized he had forgotten her birthday, he gave her a sheepish look that made her smile."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

She gives a shy, almost sheepish look at the viewer.

The New York Times - Arts

A sheepish look, after which we say goodbye.

The Guardian - Film

He gave her a sheepish look, then smiled.

The New York Times

One morning, his longtime office manager, Peggy Paulson, stepped into his office with a sheepish look.

The New Yorker

" 'Meet So-and-So So-and-So So-and-Soat the fuel desk is a guy with a sheepish look.

The New Yorker

Upon their return, Lowry met them with what Markson remembers as a "sheepish" look: Lowry had drunk Markson's aftershave.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Most navigate this with reasonable aplomb, though there are some sheepish looks.

The Guardian

Sat atop is a sheepish looking retriever – and next to him a small mound of doggy poop.

Independent

Australia's tilt at a European grand slam is still on, but they left the field with sheepish looks.

The Guardian - Sport

Ferguson's thirty seconds of silent comedy, of grins, grimaces, and sheepish looks at the camera, was a terrific soft-shoe dance not around but inside the subject.

The New Yorker

On the BBC, Jingo Boy and Mark Lawrenson are debating whether a slightly sheepish looking Jorge Larrionda is trying to level things up as best he could.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "sheepish look" when you want to convey a sense of mild embarrassment, shyness, or a hint of guilt in someone's expression. It's suitable for describing reactions to minor mistakes or awkward situations.

Common error

Avoid using "sheepish look" to describe expressions of deep shame, fear, or intense regret. It's meant for lighter situations, not for conveying severe emotional distress; alternatives such as "anguished expression" or "harrowed look" may be more fitting in the latter cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sheepish look" functions as a descriptive element, typically modifying a subject to indicate their emotional state. It describes a specific type of facial expression. Ludwig AI confirms this usage with multiple examples showing how it's used to depict a character's reaction in various situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "sheepish look" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe an expression of mild embarrassment, shyness, or slight guilt. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently used in news and media to add emotional nuance to descriptions of people's reactions. While alternatives like "embarrassed expression" or "bashful gaze" exist, "sheepish look" provides a specific and recognizable image. When using this phrase, ensure the context aligns with a sense of lightheartedness or minor awkwardness rather than severe emotional distress. In summary, understanding the subtle connotations of the "sheepish look" enables more effective and nuanced writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

embarrassed expression

Focuses more on the feeling of embarrassment being displayed.

bashful gaze

Emphasizes shyness and hesitancy in the look.

guilty glance

Highlights the aspect of feeling guilty about something.

apologetic expression

Shifts the focus to conveying an apology through the look.

self-conscious look

Highlights the awareness and discomfort of being observed.

shamefaced expression

Emphasizes feeling ashamed or disgraced.

chagrined look

Highlights a feeling of being disappointed or annoyed at oneself.

contrite expression

Focuses on the feeling of remorse and willingness to atone.

remorseful look

Highlights the deep regret and sorrow for wrongdoing.

awkward expression

Emphasizes discomfort and unease in the situation.

FAQs

How can I describe a "sheepish look"?

A "sheepish look" is often characterized by a slight smile, downcast eyes, and a subtle hunching of the shoulders. It conveys a sense of mild embarrassment or bashfulness.

What does it mean when someone gives you a "sheepish look"?

If someone gives you a "sheepish look", it usually means they are feeling slightly embarrassed, perhaps because they've made a minor mistake or are feeling awkward. It suggests a level of self-awareness and mild contrition.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "sheepish look" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "sheepish look" in writing when you want to describe a character's reaction to a mildly embarrassing or awkward situation. It adds nuance to their emotional state without being overly dramatic.

What are some alternatives to "sheepish look"?

Alternatives to "sheepish look" include "embarrassed expression", "bashful gaze", or "guilty glance", depending on the specific emotion you want to emphasize.