stern look

USAGE SUMMARY

"stern look" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone's facial expression when they are serious or angry. Example sentence: The teacher gave her a stern look in response to her disruptive behavior.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Her stern look was captured by chance.

Independent

A stern look from Mr. Ely.

The New York Times

He shot me a stern look.

The New York Times - Magazine

His stern look stopped me short.

The New York Times

"Next question, man," Martin answered with a stern look.

The New York Times

A stern look comes over Pol Pot's face.

The New Yorker

Videla was a spectral figure with his gravelly voice, stern look and mustache.

The New York Times

Johnson's trademark concentrated frown, which he calls "the stern look", has earned him a cult following.

Independent

He disciplined his children with a stern look instead of words.

The New York Times - Sports

If anything, when you spoke to him, he would send you a stern look.

The New York Times

There are people who give me a hard, strong stare and a stern look.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "stern look" to effectively convey a sense of disapproval, seriousness, or authority in your writing. It's a concise way to describe a powerful nonverbal cue.

Common error

Avoid using "stern look" excessively, as it can become repetitive and lose its impact. Consider varying your descriptions of facial expressions to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stern look" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb (e.g., "gave a stern look") or as a descriptive element modifying a subject. It vividly portrays a nonverbal expression communicating disapproval or seriousness, as Ludwig AI confirms.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Wiki

1%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "stern look" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe a facial expression conveying disapproval or seriousness. Ludwig AI validates its usability and appropriateness in written English. It appears most frequently in News & Media contexts and functions to communicate a specific emotional state concisely. When using the phrase, consider synonyms like "severe gaze" or "serious expression" to avoid repetition. Be aware that overuse of this phrase can diminish its impact. Overall, "stern look" is a versatile and effective way to describe a powerful nonverbal cue.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

severe gaze

Emphasizes the intensity and fixity of the look.

serious expression

Focuses on the overall facial expression rather than just the look in the eyes.

disapproving glare

Highlights the disapproval conveyed by the look.

reproachful gaze

Implies the look is conveying blame or criticism.

unhappy face

Focuses on visible sadness or discontent.

forbidding countenance

Suggests the look is intended to deter or warn.

cold stare

Highlights the lack of warmth or emotion in the look.

hard gaze

Emphasizes the intensity and unwavering nature of the look.

glum visage

Suggests a gloomy or depressed appearance.

firm expression

Highlights the resoluteness and determination conveyed.

FAQs

How can I use "stern look" in a sentence?

You can use "stern look" to describe someone's facial expression when they are serious, angry, or disapproving. For example: "The teacher gave the student a stern look after he interrupted the class."

What are some synonyms for "stern look"?

Alternatives to "stern look" include "severe gaze", "serious expression", and "disapproving glare". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "stern look" in formal writing?

Yes, "stern look" is appropriate for both formal and informal writing. Its meaning is widely understood, and it doesn't contain slang or overly casual language.

What's the difference between "stern look" and "angry look"?

While both convey negative emotion, "stern look" suggests a more controlled and authoritative expression of disapproval, while "angry look" implies a more overt and possibly uncontrolled display of anger.