subtle glance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "subtle glance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a discreet or understated look that conveys meaning without being overt. Example: "She gave him a subtle glance, hinting that she was ready to leave the party."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

With every handshake, every subtle glance, I wondered: Am I being judged?

Huffington Post

We had inside jokes and after a while we could lead each other's conversation in the direction we needed it to go with just a subtle glance.

Huffington Post

A subtle glance in the Chow Hall, or an 'accidental' brush against them in the shower can send a pretty clear signal.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Cersei's despair as she cradled her son, the swift, subtle glances between Margaery and Olenna, two consummate players of a consummate game, the raw, empty look on Arya's face at the season's end.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The Munich-based company recently kicked off a Kickstarter campaign to let Kinect owners control their PCs with little more than some subtle glances, thanks to a $50 add-on they're calling the eyeCharm.

TechCrunch

She's a singer who hits every vocal nuance, whether serious or satiric; a high-energy dancer who could probably double as a contortionist; a comic who draws roars from pratfalls, subtle glances, punchlines and sensuality.

Huffington Post

Charged with delivering some sort of small justice for a devastated people, they embark on a risky adventure that rips open the scabs over their own deep losses in the Holocaust, the pain, haunted memories and anger manifest in their subtle glances, clenched jaws and shaking hands.

Huffington Post

You can do this in a number of ways that starts with very subtle glances down at your finger nails or at your cigarette as she is talking.

WikiHow

I assured her that we had considered it and decided to stick to the original plan, trading my sweet smile for a curt tone and a not-so-subtle glance at my watch.

The New York Times

He flung the audience subtle sideways glances, was both knowing and unknowing.

The Guardian

Sangakarra plays the subtlest of subtle leg glances to tickle the ball to the fine leg boundary.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "subtle glance" when you want to describe a look that is not obvious but still conveys a message or meaning.

Common error

Avoid using "subtle glance" too frequently in your writing, as it can become repetitive. Vary your descriptions of looks and expressions to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "subtle glance" functions as a noun phrase where "subtle" modifies the noun "glance". Ludwig AI indicates it describes a look that conveys meaning without being obvious. The examples provided support this, showing it used to indicate judgment, shared understanding, or attraction.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

33%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "subtle glance" is a grammatically correct and usable English phrase used to describe a discreet or understated look. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness in written English. While its frequency is rare, it is commonly found in News & Media and Wiki contexts. Related phrases include "discreet look" and "understated gaze". When using the phrase, ensure it accurately conveys the intended meaning of a non-obvious, yet meaningful, look and avoid overuse to maintain writing variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

slight gaze

Uses "slight" to indicate a minimal or delicate look.

discreet look

Replaces "glance" with a more general term for looking, emphasizing the unobtrusive nature.

understated gaze

Substitutes both "subtle" and "glance" with synonyms that maintain the nuance of subtlety.

quick, covert look

Emphasizes the speed and secrecy of the glance.

furtive peek

Highlights the secretive and slightly mischievous nature of the look.

passing look

Focuses on the brevity and transient nature of the glance.

unobtrusive observation

Replaces the specific action of glancing with a more general, less noticeable observation.

veiled look

Suggests that the look is partially concealed or disguised.

indirect gaze

Indicates that the look is not direct or straightforward.

casual observation

Implies a relaxed and seemingly unintentional viewing.

FAQs

How can I use "subtle glance" in a sentence?

You can use "subtle glance" to describe a quick, often meaningful look that is not overtly obvious. For example: "She gave him a /s/subtle+glance, indicating her agreement." or "With a /s/subtle+glance, he signaled his intentions to the others".

What are some alternatives to "subtle glance"?

Alternatives include "discreet look", "understated gaze", or "furtive peek", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "subtle glance" in formal writing?

Yes, "subtle glance" is appropriate in both formal and informal writing, as it is a standard English phrase. However, consider your audience and the specific context to ensure it fits the overall tone.

What does a "subtle glance" typically imply?

A "subtle glance" usually implies a discreet or understated look that conveys meaning without being overt. It can suggest a range of emotions or intentions, such as interest, agreement, or warning.