their facial expressions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "their facial expressions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the visible emotional responses or reactions of individuals, often in the context of communication or behavior analysis. Example: "The actor's performance was so compelling that their facial expressions conveyed a range of emotions without the need for dialogue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What are their facial expressions?

Harvard Business Review

The same was true of their facial expressions.

The New Yorker

NEW YORKERS have long kept their facial expressions guarded, for safety, privacy or emotional safekeeping.

The New York Times - Style

Their facial expressions were serene and inscrutable, suggesting absorption in the spectacle of Gray's Papaya.

The New Yorker

In another study, videotape showed subjects adjusting their facial expressions to fit.

The New York Times

What I found most compelling about these works were their facial expressions.

The New York Times

The criticism of the two women also extended to their facial expressions.

The New York Times

At another show, models wore metal prongs that twisted their facial expressions into screams.

Britannica

In which case, during domestication dogs may have gained additional cognitive control of their facial expressions.

Nature

People are often unaware of their facial expressions, especially when deep in thought.

Harvard Business Review

The details are there in the subjects — their ensembles, their dates, their facial expressions.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context: in formal writing, "countenance" or "visage" might be more appropriate, while in casual conversation, "the look on their faces" could be better.

Common error

Avoid using "their facial expressions" when you intend to describe overall demeanor. Facial expressions are only one component of nonverbal communication; body language, tone of voice, and posture also contribute to a person's overall presentation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "their facial expressions" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It serves as the subject or object of a sentence, referring to the observable emotional indicators displayed on people's faces. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

18%

Science

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "their facial expressions" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe how individuals outwardly display their emotions. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is widely used across various contexts, from news articles to scientific studies. While the phrase is generally neutral, it's important to consider the specific context when analyzing facial expressions. Related phrases like "the look on their faces" or "their countenance" can offer suitable alternatives depending on the desired level of formality. When using this phrase, remember that facial expressions are just one aspect of nonverbal communication and should be interpreted in conjunction with other cues such as body language and tone of voice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the expressions on their faces

Rephrases the original by focusing on the faces as the location of the expressions.

the way their faces looked

Provides a simpler, more descriptive alternative.

the look in their eyes

Shifts the focus to the eyes as a key component of facial expression.

the feelings shown on their faces

Highlights the visible display of feelings.

their emotional displays

Replaces "facial expressions" with a broader term encompassing all outward signs of emotion.

their countenance

Offers a more formal and literary alternative to "facial expressions".

their nonverbal cues

Presents a more technical term that includes facial expressions as one component.

the emotion they conveyed

Focuses on the communication of feelings rather than the physical manifestation.

their visages

Replaces 'facial expressions' with a more archaic and poetic synonym.

the way their faces betrayed their feelings

Emphasizes the involuntary nature of facial expressions revealing inner emotions.

FAQs

How can I describe someone's feelings using "their facial expressions"?

You can say, "Their facial expressions showed joy", "Their facial expressions revealed sadness", or "Their facial expressions betrayed anger", depending on what you want to convey.

What is a more formal way to say "their facial expressions"?

Alternatives such as "their countenance" or "their visage" can be used in more formal contexts. However, be mindful of the audience, as these terms are less commonly used.

Is it accurate to assume someone's emotions solely based on "their facial expressions"?

While "their facial expressions" can offer clues, it's important to avoid making assumptions. Cultural differences, attempts to mask emotions, and other contextual factors can influence facial expressions, making it unreliable to use as the sole indicator of someone's true feelings.

What other nonverbal cues should I consider besides "their facial expressions"?

Consider their "body language", tone of voice, gestures, and eye contact. A holistic interpretation of these cues provides a more accurate understanding of someone's emotional state.