slack lips

USAGE SUMMARY

'slack lips' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is a metaphor that is used to describe someone's facial expression when they are tired or bored, or when they are not paying attention. For example, "The student had a slack lips expression on his face during the lecture."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Bubbles are emerging from its slack lips.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Loose lips sink startups.

TechCrunch

MPs bleat goatishly from slack, grinning lips.

Vice

The glazed eyes, the slack lower lip, the hands positioned like adorable puppy paws.

The New Yorker

Savanna has fallen asleep, her lips slack around the nipple.

The New Yorker

She locked her arms behind his neck and clung to him, her lips slack and wet.

The New Yorker

At 68, he now wore a face lined with deep folds, and his lips hung slack, crested with a sparse mustache.

Huffington Post

Iron Man, a more recent creation, is recognisable as a sneering, insincere slacker: nothing heartfelt ever passes through his lips; the very thought of saying something honest and authentic would mortify him.

The Guardian - Film

"I, sirs, am a splendid specimen!" One will notice that the woman wipes her hand on her slacks because the mere thought of his lips touching her makes the flesh creep.

The New York Times

As we approach Christmas, it's time for good startup boys and girls to slack off and, most importantly, record bad lip dubs of Mariah Carey songs.

TechCrunch

The men, barefoot and wearing worn slacks and shirts, sway softly, palms forward, eyes rolled back, lips moving noiselessly.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "slack lips" to subtly convey a character's fatigue, boredom, or lack of engagement in descriptive writing, avoiding more overt or cliché expressions.

Common error

Avoid using "slack lips" in formal or professional settings where a more precise or neutral description of facial expression is required. Opt for terms like "relaxed" or "slightly open" depending on the specific context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "slack lips" functions primarily as a descriptive element, adding detail to character portrayals or scene settings. Ludwig AI indicates that it's used to describe a facial expression, often implying a lack of tension or alertness.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "slack lips" is a descriptive phrase used to depict a relaxed, inattentive, or tired facial expression. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usage in diverse contexts, primarily within news and media. While "slack lips" may not be suitable for formal contexts, it serves as a vivid descriptor in creative and descriptive writing. Related phrases such as "drooping lips" or "relaxed lips" can serve as alternative depending on intended meaning. The phrase, though rare, can effectively enhance character portrayals and scene settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drooping lips

Emphasizes the downward movement of the lips, suggesting sadness or fatigue.

limp lips

Indicates a lack of firmness or rigidity in the lips.

flaccid lips

Highlights the lack of muscle tone in the lips.

unresponsive lips

Suggests a lack of reaction or movement in the lips.

loose lips

Focuses on indiscretion in speech rather than facial expression.

expressionless lips

Shifts the focus to the absence of emotion conveyed by the lips.

relaxed lips

Indicates a state of ease or lack of tension in the lips.

parted lips

Focuses on the separation of the lips, often implying surprise or anticipation.

open mouth

Broadens the description to include the entire mouth, suggesting shock or inattention.

vacant expression

Moves away from the lips specifically and describes the overall facial appearance of emptiness or lack of awareness.

FAQs

How can I describe "slack lips" in a more formal way?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "relaxed lips", "slightly parted lips", or "lips lacking tension" to convey a similar meaning with a more neutral tone.

What does it mean when someone has "slack lips"?

Generally, "slack lips" suggests a state of relaxation, inattention, or fatigue. It can also imply a lack of emotional expression or a blank facial expression.

What are some alternative phrases to "slack lips"?

Alternatives include "drooping lips", "limp lips", or "relaxed lips", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey. /s/relaxed+lips

Is "slack lips" considered a negative description?

While not inherently negative, "slack lips" can sometimes carry a slightly unfavorable connotation, implying a lack of alertness or engagement. Consider the context and your intended meaning when using the phrase.