solemn face

USAGE SUMMARY

"solemn face" is a correct and common phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone's facial expression when they are serious, formal, or solemn in their demeanor. This phrase can be used in various contexts, such as describing someone's expression, mood, or behavior. Example: The old man's solemn face gave away his grief as he stood at the funeral of his beloved wife. In this sentence, "solemn face" is used to describe the old man's expression, showing that he is serious and sad during the funeral. Another example: The judge's solemn face and stern tone made it clear that he would not tolerate any misconduct in his courtroom. Here, "solemn face" is used to describe the judge's serious and formal expression, emphasizing his authority as a judge in the courtroom.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

Her solemn face is half in shadow.

The New York Times

He was around seven, but little, with a long, solemn face and a fantastic Dub accent.

University of Pennsylvania

The solemn face filling "Underfoot XX" (1999) looks a little like the grumpy superintendent in my building.

The New York Times

Over the next 11 years, his was the solemn face of the nine-man junta ruling Nicaragua.

The New York Times

Jaspreet Singh, a young farmer with a solemn face, explains that they are digging an extra 10 feet into the ground every 4 years to reach the water.

Columbia University

The fact that she's also a beautiful woman, elegantly proportioned, with auburn hair neatly pulled back from her solemn face, is part of the deal.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

The cameras loved it, panning their solemn faces relentlessly.

The Guardian

Tugging saris over their solemn faces, these girls are Laura and Alice's counterparts.

Independent

"You can almost feel the ardor behind the solemn faces: lucky stampedes of power mourners, about two thousand of them, wearing out the red-carpeted aisles of the Kennedy Center".

The New Yorker

It was the pleasure of imitating the voices of people you can't stand, or drawing mustaches on the solemn faces of the past.

The New Yorker

Solemn faced with the weight of their responsibility, they presented vivid accounts of the diseases and bacteria to which I would be vulnerable.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "solemn face" to describe a person's expression in situations that call for seriousness, such as funerals, courtrooms, or formal ceremonies. This phrase effectively conveys a sense of gravity and emotional restraint.

Common error

Avoid using "solemn face" when simply describing sadness or grief. "Solemn" implies a more profound sense of seriousness, respect, or formality beyond simple sorrow. Instead, consider "sad face" or "grief-stricken face" for scenarios purely focused on sadness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "solemn face" functions as a descriptive noun phrase, where 'solemn' modifies 'face'. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and commonly used. Examples from Ludwig show its use in describing a person's expression in serious situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

23%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "solemn face" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to describe a serious, formal, or grave facial expression. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is appropriate for various contexts, predominantly in News & Media and Academia. The phrase's effectiveness lies in its ability to convey a sense of gravity and emotional restraint. While synonyms like "serious expression" or "grave countenance" exist, "solemn face" maintains a balance of formality and clarity suitable for professional and journalistic writing. Avoid using "solemn face" to express mere sadness; reserve it for scenarios requiring a deeper sense of respect or formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

serious expression

Focuses on the visible emotion rather than a permanent trait.

grave countenance

Uses a more formal and somewhat archaic term for "face".

somber visage

Emphasizes a dark or melancholic appearance.

serious look

Highlights the act of looking serious at a particular moment.

unsmiling face

Focuses on the absence of a smile as an indicator of seriousness.

austere features

Describes the facial characteristics as being severe or strict.

forbidding aspect

Implies the face is intimidating or unwelcoming.

melancholy features

Describes features marked by sadness or pensiveness.

thoughtful expression

Highlights the introspective nature of the person's face.

dour features

Suggests a sullen or gloomy facial appearance.

FAQs

How can I describe a less intense version of a "solemn face"?

For a less intense version, consider phrases like "serious expression", or "thoughtful look" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "solemn face" in writing?

It's appropriate when describing someone's demeanor during serious or formal occasions, such as funerals, court proceedings, or important ceremonies, where a sense of gravity and respect is paramount. A "solemn face" conveys seriousness and emotional restraint.

What are some synonyms for "solemn face" that I can use to vary my writing?

Some synonyms include "grave countenance", "austere features", or "somber visage". Each carries a slightly different nuance, so choose the one that best fits your context.

Is it correct to say "solemn faces" when referring to a group of people?

Yes, it is perfectly acceptable to use the plural form "solemn faces" when describing a group of people who all have solemn expressions. For example, "The jury members all had solemn faces as the verdict was read".