threw a look

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "threw a look" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone casting a glance or expressing a feeling through their gaze, often in a dramatic or significant way. Example: "She threw a look of disbelief at him when he made the outrageous claim."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

He threw a look — um, duh, wouldn't you if you could?

The New York Times

Mr. Leguizamo, who currently plays a boxer in the film "Infamous," threw a look of helplessness to the crowd.

The New York Times

She threw a look at the guy, who was still perched on the hood of the car, then wiped her nose with the back of her hand and began to cry again.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

Before lining up a difficult shot, Mitchell has a habit of first throwing a look over his left shoulder, and blowing out through puffed cheeks, before returning his gaze to the board, as if resetting the alignment of his missile-guidance system.

The New Yorker

Thomas threw a panicked look behind him as Cavendish looked in danger of becoming boxed-in as they reached the finishing straight.

BBC

"We threw a lot of different looks at him.

The New York Times - Sports

The driver threw a contemptuous look back in his direction.

The Guardian - Books

Michael Vick was 25 of 43 for 263 yards and a touchdown but was sacked six times, lost two fumbles and threw an interception, looking uncharacteristically pedestrian.

The New York Times - Sports

Read headlines and if a pitcher threw a complete game, look up his stats.

WikiHow

To collect sounds of a startled ascent, the researchers waited for a solitary bird to start feeding and then threw a glider that looked like a hawk to scare the pigeon.

Science Magazine

Djokovic, 26, threw a few frustrated looks towards Becker in the stands as Wawrinka powered through the third set to take a grip on the match, but finishing the job remained another matter entirely.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "threw a look" to depict a quick, expressive glance, often conveying a strong emotion or reaction. It adds a touch of drama to the description.

Common error

Avoid using "threw a look" in highly formal or professional writing, as it can sound overly dramatic. Opt for a more neutral term like "glanced" or "looked" for a more appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "threw a look" functions as a verb phrase, describing the action of directing a glance, often loaded with emotion. Ludwig AI indicates this usage is correct. Examples in Ludwig show its use in descriptive narratives.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "threw a look" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a quick, expressive glance, often conveying strong emotion. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. While not exceptionally common, it finds its place in news, media and other writing styles. For more formal contexts, consider alternatives like "glanced" or "looked". Use "threw a look" when aiming for a descriptive, slightly dramatic effect. Its evocative nature adds depth and character to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shot a look

Similar to "threw a look", implying a quick, often sharp, expression in the gaze.

cast a glance

Replaces "threw" with a more neutral verb, suggesting a brief look.

sent a meaningful look

Highlights the intention and depth behind the look.

offered a fleeting glance

Emphasizes the briefness and insubstantial nature of the action.

directed a gaze

More formal and less emotional than "threw a look".

flash a look

Captures fleeting nature of the expression while shifting structure.

gave a glare

Focuses on a hostile or angry expression.

bestowed a glance

Sounds archaic and focuses on the act of giving a quick look.

fixed someone with a stare

Changes the action to a prolonged, intense look.

turned a disdainful eye

Highlights disdainful attitude while changing structure.

FAQs

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

Use "threw a look" to describe someone giving a quick, expressive glance that conveys a specific emotion or reaction, as in, "She "threw a look" of disbelief when he announced his plans".

What are some alternatives to "threw a look"?

Alternatives include "cast a glance", "shot a look", or "gave a glare", depending on the specific emotion or intensity you want to convey.

Is "threw a look" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "threw a look" is more suited for informal or creative writing. In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "glanced" or "looked" for a more professional tone.

What does it imply when someone "threw a look"?

It suggests a rapid, emotionally charged expression. The look can communicate surprise, anger, disapproval, or any other strong feeling. It emphasizes the immediacy and intensity of the reaction.