troubled expressions

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "troubled expressions" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe facial expressions or emotions that indicate distress, confusion, or concern. Example: "Her troubled expressions during the meeting made it clear that she was not in agreement with the proposed changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The men continued on for a while, speaking animatedly as the tour guide's face registered a kaleidoscope of troubled expressions.

The New York Times

Even so, his much-smaller-than-life-size sculptures of grown men and women, with their forlorn and troubled expressions, have a numinous aura as vulnerable, childlike objects, empathetic and otherworldly.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

." Mrs. Vreeland's eyes wandered off, and her face assumed the troubled expression of a lookout who notices a menacing configuration in the distance.

The New Yorker

So it comes as little surprise that a young woman with a video camera and a loving, troubled expression inquired why I, "a successful and effective artist" with so much to be proud off, should be troubled by death.

The New York Times - Arts

But looking at the troubled expression on the face of Giants punter Matt Allen and the bright smile of Tom Rouen standing a few feet away, it was not hard to put together the puzzle.

The New York Times - Sports

In newspaper articles about the Mediterranean island's troubled banks, one expression has repeatedly cropped up: "o confisco".

BBC

This finding could reflect cultural differences with Thais less troubled by individualistic expression at work.

Globalization and Health

Born in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Baloji was sent by his wealthy dad to live in Belgium where his troubled teenage life found expression in the successful hip-hop group Starflam.

The Guardian - Music

Responses are encoded on a four-point Likert scale from "not troubled" to "heavily troubled".

BMC Public Health

The stigma associated with mental disorder prevented children from expressing their troubled feelings and seeking help.

Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Mental Health

"School is O.K.," says Ashdeep uncertainly, but his expression betrays a more troubled feeling.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "troubled expressions" when referring to groups of people, this works when you want to emphasize the worry and concern that a difficult situation is causing. For example: After the announcement of the merger, troubled expressions filled the faces of the employees.

Common error

Avoid repeatedly stating that characters have "troubled expressions" when dialogue or actions could convey the same emotion more effectively. Show, don't tell, the character's state of mind.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "troubled expressions" functions primarily as a descriptive element, modifying a noun to indicate a state of emotional distress or concern. Ludwig indicates that this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Arts

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "troubled expressions" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase for describing facial expressions that convey worry or distress. As confirmed by Ludwig, this phrase is suitable for various contexts, particularly in news, media, and artistic descriptions. While not the most frequent expression, it offers a nuanced way to depict inner turmoil through visible facial cues. For alternatives, consider "worried looks" or "distressed faces". It's important to use this phrase judiciously, avoiding overuse and ensuring that dialogue and actions also contribute to conveying characters' emotions effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

worried looks

Focuses more on the visual aspect of worry, changing the noun.

distressed faces

Highlights the distress experienced, swapping "troubled" with "distressed".

anxious visages

Replaces both the adjective and noun with more formal vocabulary.

concerned countenances

Uses more formal and literary terms for "concerned" and "faces".

uneasy features

Emphasizes the lack of ease in the facial features.

pained expressions

Shifts the focus to visible pain or suffering.

anguished looks

Conveys a deeper sense of suffering and torment.

perturbed faces

Highlights a state of disturbance or agitation.

disturbed expressions

Implies a deeper emotional or mental unrest.

apprehensive looks

Focuses on anticipation of future misfortune.

FAQs

How can I describe a face showing worry instead of saying "troubled expressions"?

Consider using phrases like "worried looks", "anxious visages", or "distressed faces" to convey a similar meaning with slight variations in tone or formality.

What does it mean when someone has "troubled expressions"?

It typically indicates that the person is experiencing worry, anxiety, or some form of emotional distress. Their facial features reflect these inner feelings, making their concern visible to others.

Is it more effective to describe someone's expressions or show their feelings through actions?

Showing feelings through actions is generally more effective in writing, as it allows the reader to infer the character's emotional state. Describing "troubled expressions" can be useful for initial setup or emphasis, but avoid overuse.

Can "troubled expressions" be used in both formal and informal writing?

While generally acceptable in both contexts, "troubled expressions" leans towards a neutral to slightly formal tone. In very informal settings, simpler alternatives like "worried looks" might be more appropriate.