skeptical expression

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "skeptical expression" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a facial expression or demeanor that conveys doubt or disbelief about something being said or presented. Example: "When he heard the outrageous claim, a skeptical expression crossed his face, making it clear he didn't believe a word of it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

"She said, 'Really,' " Khairi said, lifting his eyebrows in an imitation of a skeptical expression.

The New Yorker

He wore a trilby, Ray-Bans, a multicolored scarf, gray stovepipe jeans, and running shoes, and a skeptical expression that belied an affable mood.

The New Yorker

When Mishurovsky rang the bells, his normally skeptical expression was replaced by one of smiling beatitude, and he swayed and waved his arms.

The New Yorker

A young woman named Tequila in a 1978 painting has a look all her own: in loose, bright-red below-the-knee shorts, canvas basketball sneakers, striped athletic socks, a wide-collared sailor shirt, denim jacket and a long-billed cap, she poses with one fist on her hip, a cigarette in her other hand and an amused, slightly skeptical expression.

The New York Times - Arts

The thirty-year-old standup comedian Maria Wojciechowski runs the Instagram account ILookLikeLauraDern1, which features Wojciechowski deftly imitating some of Dern's most iconic looks (the billowy khaki shorts, knotted pink button-down, and skeptical expression from "Jurassic Park"; the topless Rolling Stone cover; the soft, ingénue curls from "Blue Velvet").

The New Yorker

On Gorée Island's sandy coast, he captured the skeptical expression of a young black boy wearing a plain white Senegalese boubou (a flowy cotton shirt and trousers*) and matching sandals, and the steps of the House of Slaves, a stunning pink building that serves as a memorial to the millions of captive Africans who were transported to the Americas and Europe during the transatlantic slave trade.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

They were polite; they mostly smiled, and the skeptical expressions they had were very much in the spirit of the event.

The New Yorker

(i) Skeptical expressions can be used as signs, which reveal a state of mind (PH 1.187).

SEP

Sextus too devotes much space to accounts of skeptical expressions and language.

SEP

So Syrians feel abandoned and increasingly skeptical of Western expressions of concern.

The New York Times

The would-be summiteers were the kind of mixed lot you find on every Everest expedition these days: Daltonites, with that skeptical, seen-it-all Dalton expression; some grimly self-disciplined St. Bernarders, who wore T-shirts with their school name on it; an Ethical Culturer or two; and various P.S.ers.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "skeptical expression" to convey a nuanced sense of doubt that is visible but not necessarily vocalized. It's more subtle than saying someone "expressed skepticism".

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "skeptical expression" in academic or formal contexts. Instead, opt for more precise language that specifies the nature of the skepticism, such as "critical assessment" or "doubtful analysis".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "skeptical expression" functions as a noun phrase, where "skeptical" is an adjective modifying the noun "expression". It describes a visible manifestation of doubt or disbelief. Ludwig confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Social Media

3%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "skeptical expression" is a grammatically sound and neutrally-toned phrase used to describe a visible manifestation of doubt. While not overly frequent, as demonstrated by Ludwig, it's a useful way to convey a character's internal state subtly. Alternatives like "doubtful look" or "disbelieving gaze" offer more specific visual cues. Remember to avoid overuse in formal writing and consider more precise language when appropriate. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and provides real-world examples demonstrating how this phrase is used.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a look of skepticism

Rephrases the expression as a general indication of doubt.

doubtful look

Replaces "expression" with a more specific visual cue, focusing on the appearance of doubt.

disbelieving gaze

Emphasizes the visual aspect of disbelief rather than a general expression.

an air of disbelief

Conveys a general sense of disbelief surrounding a person.

cynical demeanor

Shifts from a fleeting expression to a more ingrained attitude or behavior.

questioning glance

Highlights the act of questioning through a look.

incredulous face

Focuses specifically on the facial aspect of disbelief.

dubious countenance

Uses more formal language to describe a doubtful appearance.

showed skepticism

Transforms the noun phrase into a verb phrase.

manifested doubt

Expresses the concept through a verb, indicating the appearance of doubt.

FAQs

How can I describe a "skeptical expression" in more detail?

You can elaborate on a "skeptical expression" by describing the specific facial features involved, such as raised eyebrows, a furrowed brow, or a slight smirk. These details can add depth to your writing and provide a clearer picture of the person's reaction.

What are some synonyms for "skeptical expression"?

Some synonyms for "skeptical expression" include "doubtful look", "disbelieving gaze", or "questioning glance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "skeptical expression" in formal writing?

Yes, "skeptical expression" is generally appropriate in formal writing, but consider whether a more precise term might be more effective. For example, you might use "critical assessment" or "analytical doubt" to convey a more academic tone.

What's the difference between a "skeptical expression" and a "cynical expression"?

A "skeptical expression" indicates doubt or questioning, while a "cynical expression" suggests a more negative or distrustful attitude, often implying a belief that people are motivated by self-interest.