stare intently

USAGE SUMMARY

"stare intently" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It means to look at something or someone with focused and unwavering gaze. You can use it in various contexts, such as describing someone's actions, expressing a character's emotions, or setting a scene. Example: The old man sat on the park bench, staring intently at the children playing on the swings.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

They stare intently at fossils.

The New York Times

Seven people, wearing headphones, stare intently at computer screens.

The New York Times

When two dogs try to intimidate each other, they stiffen, growl, bare their teeth and stare intently.

The New York Times

As they stare intently into their computer screens, they are looking at the real you that exists for them, the one in the computer.

The New York Times

Its head, marked with black stripes and a pale collar, is raised above the water, and its yellow and black eyes stare intently at the bank.

The Guardian

Between dives the pair would don puffa jackets and stare intently into the middle distance, returning to their task like metronomes each round.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Hugo stopped staring at his screen and instead stared intently at the houses, one by one.

The Guardian

He stared intently.

The New Yorker

Waschbusch stared intently at the screen.

The New York Times - Magazine

The girl stares intently at her notes.

The Guardian

She stared intently at her screen, the minutes lengthening.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stare intently" to depict focused attention or absorption in something, such as a character studying a clue or an audience watching a performance. It adds a layer of intensity to the observation.

Common error

While "stare intently" effectively conveys focus, avoid repetitive use within close proximity in writing. Vary your descriptions with synonyms like "gaze fixedly" or "observe keenly" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stare intently" functions as a verb phrase modifying a subject. It describes the manner in which someone is looking. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically sound and common expression. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in describing focused observation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "stare intently" is a grammatically correct and frequently used expression signifying focused and unwavering observation. As Ludwig AI states, it effectively describes someone looking at something with deep concentration. Common across various contexts, particularly in News & Media, its intensity can be adjusted with synonyms such as "gaze fixedly" or "observe keenly". While versatile, overuse should be avoided by incorporating varied descriptive language. Ludwig's examples illustrate the phrase's utility in conveying specific details or enhancing narrative tension. Therefore, using "stare intently" can add impact to your writing by showing deep attention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gaze fixedly

Emphasizes a steady, unwavering look but with a nuance of being lost in thought or admiration.

focus sharply

Highlights the concentration of attention on a specific point or area.

peer closely

Suggests looking with effort, often to see something small or unclear, implying scrutiny.

observe keenly

Highlights the sharpness and perceptiveness of the observation.

rivet eyes

Suggests capturing or holding attention firmly, often due to fascination or surprise.

watch attentively

Focuses on the act of observing carefully over a period, highlighting awareness and readiness.

study closely

Focuses on learning or understanding through careful observation.

scrutinize carefully

Implies a detailed and critical examination, often looking for flaws or hidden details.

glare piercingly

Indicates an intense, often angry or intimidating look.

contemplate deeply

Combines looking with thoughtful consideration, suggesting the object of the gaze provokes reflection.

FAQs

How can I use "stare intently" in a sentence?

You can use "stare intently" to describe someone's focused gaze. For example, "The scientist "stared intently" at the microscope, searching for any sign of the virus".

What are some alternatives to "stare intently"?

Alternatives include "gaze fixedly", "peer closely", or "watch attentively", each carrying slightly different nuances.

Is it better to say "stare intently" or "look intently"?

"Stare intently" emphasizes a more fixed and unwavering gaze, while "look intently" simply implies focused looking. The better choice depends on the specific context and desired emphasis.

What's the difference between "stare intently" and "glare menacingly"?

"Stare intently" suggests focus, while "glare menacingly" implies hostility or threat. The words convey vastly different emotions.