solemn expression

USAGE SUMMARY

'solemn expression' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a serious, earnest facial expression or other nonverbal behavior. For example, "The important moment was met with a solemn expression from everyone in the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

He sat today at the defense table with a solemn expression that rarely changed.

The New York Times - Sports

His solemn expression in the photograph is fair warning for his latest album, "When We Were the New Boys," which is a collection of cover versions.

The New Yorker

Sitting among them, in a dark suit with a solemn expression on his face, was a seriously jet-lagged Mr. Clinton.

The New York Times

The Museum of Modern Art featured it in a 1951 exhibition, 14 years after it went off the market, terming it "a most solemn expression of streamlining".

The New York Times

His fur was a dull silver, the color of dishwater, but he had this beet-red face, set in a serious, almost solemn expression.

The New Yorker

Father's face changed, a solemn expression suggesting that he might be taking offense, which of course made the whole thing funnier.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Not since Churchill died have our screens witnessed such solemn expressions.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

How quaint and self-conscious they look, frozen in stiff postures and solemn expressions.

The New York Times

At a news conference in downtown Los Angeles, a smattering of victims' relatives squeezed together into the crowd, wearing solemn expressions.

The New York Times

Residents with tired red eyes and solemn expressions walked through the wreckage of what had been a picturesque town with a vibrant main street.

The New York Times

Several Yankees stood on the top step of the dugout wearing solemn expressions as medical technicians turned Huff on his back and eventually moved him onto the stretcher.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "solemn expression" to describe a serious or thoughtful facial appearance, especially in formal or news-related contexts. For example, "The judge maintained a solemn expression throughout the trial."

Common error

Avoid using "solemn expression" in casual conversations or informal writing. Simpler phrases like "serious face" or "unsmiling" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "solemn expression" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "solemn" modifies the noun "expression". It describes a specific type of facial appearance or demeanor. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Wiki

1%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "solemn expression" is a grammatically correct and commonly used term to describe a serious or thoughtful facial appearance. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in written English. It is most frequently found in News & Media sources, indicating its suitability for formal and neutral contexts. While versatile, it's best to avoid it in casual conversations, opting for simpler alternatives like "serious face" instead. Related phrases include "grave face" and "somber countenance", offering nuanced ways to convey a similar meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serious look

Replaces "expression" with a more direct synonym, focusing on visual appearance.

grave face

Emphasizes the weightiness and seriousness of the facial expression.

somber countenance

Uses a more formal word, "countenance", to describe the facial appearance, implying a deeper level of seriousness.

serious mien

Replaces "expression" with "mien," referring to a person's manner or bearing, suggesting a sustained seriousness.

unsmiling face

Focuses on the absence of a smile, highlighting the lack of joy or amusement.

poker face

Implies a deliberate attempt to conceal emotions or thoughts.

deadpan expression

Describes a face devoid of emotion or humor, often used for comedic effect.

long face

Indicates sadness or disappointment.

austere look

Emphasizes strictness, severity, or a lack of adornment in the facial expression.

melancholy air

Suggests a pervasive sadness or pensiveness, affecting the overall demeanor.

FAQs

What does "solemn expression" mean?

A "solemn expression" refers to a serious, grave, or thoughtful look on someone's face, often indicating a lack of amusement or joy.

How can I use "solemn expression" in a sentence?

You might say, "The news was met with a "solemn expression" from the team", indicating their serious reaction to the information.

What are some alternatives to "solemn expression"?

Alternatives include "serious look", "grave face", or "somber countenance", depending on the desired level of formality.

Is "solemn expression" appropriate for informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "solemn expression" is more suited for formal contexts. In informal writing, consider using simpler phrases like "serious face" or "unsmiling".