sour face

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "sour face" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a facial expression – often in moments of displeasure or disappointment. For example: "When Jenny heard the news, she made a sour face."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

He made a sour face.

The New Yorker

She made a sour face.

The New Yorker

Another made a sour face.

The New York Times

Victoria Beckham's sour face on opening night said it all.

The New York Times - Arts

My daughter made a sour face and left the room.

The New Yorker

— ANNIE LOWREY Ah, the first sour face of the night.

The New York Times

Mr. Attardi shook his head and made a sour face.

The New York Times

"It's not," she said with a sour face.

The New York Times

"Didn't he play for you?" "Call that play?" she said, making a sour face.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

If you could become a great teacher by being sour faced, the job would be easy.

The Guardian

I had given a reading the night before at a home in a nearby town, and when I mentioned Chesterfield people made sour faces.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "sour face" with action verbs (e.g., 'made a sour face', 'wore a sour face') to clearly show the character's reaction.

Common error

While "sour face" is descriptive, avoid relying on it excessively. Vary your descriptions of negative emotions by using synonyms or showing the emotion through actions and dialogue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sour face" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb (e.g., 'made a sour face'). According to Ludwig AI, this is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Academia

9%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sour face" is a commonly used and grammatically sound way to express displeasure or disapproval. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous real-world examples from sources like The New York Times and The Guardian, primarily within the News & Media context. When writing, consider using this phrase to vividly depict a negative reaction, but avoid overusing it. Alternatives such as "displeased expression" and "unhappy countenance" offer similar meanings with slight variations in tone and intensity. While suitable for general use, more formal alternatives might be preferred in highly professional settings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

displeased expression

Focuses on the visible manifestation of dissatisfaction.

unhappy countenance

Emphasizes the overall appearance reflecting unhappiness.

frowning visage

Highlights the furrowed brow and downturned mouth.

glum look

Suggests a general sense of sadness or depression.

grimace of distaste

Highlights a contorted facial expression indicating strong dislike.

scowling expression

Emphasizes anger or disapproval in the facial expression.

look of displeasure

A more general way of indicating dissatisfaction.

disapproving look

Specific to expressing disapproval.

irked expression

Suggests mild annoyance or irritation.

discontented look

Highlights a lack of satisfaction.

FAQs

How can I describe a mild form of disapproval instead of using "sour face"?

For a less intense expression of disapproval, consider using phrases like "displeased expression" or "irked expression".

What does it mean when someone wears a "sour face"?

Wearing a "sour face" generally indicates displeasure, disappointment, or disapproval. It's a visible manifestation of negative emotions.

Is "sour face" an appropriate phrase to use in formal writing?

While "sour face" is widely understood, it might be more suitable for informal or creative writing. In formal contexts, consider using more neutral terms like "look of displeasure".

Are there any alternatives to using "made a sour face" to describe someone's reaction?

Yes, you can use alternatives like "wore a sour face", "pulled a sour face", or simply describe the facial expression directly, such as "her face twisted in distaste".