ugly face

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'ugly face' is completely correct and usable in written English.
You could use this phrase when describing someone's facial expression, for example, "She made an ugly face when she saw the results of the test".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"It's an ugly face.

The New York Times - Sports

"Fat, ugly face" (Rosie O'Donnell).

The Washington Post

"It's an ugly face," he said.

The New Yorker

"They are the ugly face of business".

The Guardian

"And it has an ugly face".

The New York Times

"The I.N.S. is showing a very ugly face here, a very ugly face," he said.

The New York Times

Mr Le Pen is the ugly face of extreme nationalism.

The Economist

I finally get my ugly face on that trophy".

The New York Times

He likes to frighten children with his ugly face.

The New Yorker

The ugly face of Republicans' xenophobic base was revealed.

The Washington Post

Undoubtedly Hizb ut-Tahrir has an ugly face.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ugly face", consider the impact of your words. While sometimes appropriate for directness or humor, be mindful of potential offense, especially in sensitive contexts. Consider softer alternatives if nuance is desired.

Common error

Avoid using "ugly face" in professional or academic writing. It's often too informal and blunt. Instead, opt for phrases like "unattractive features" or "unflattering appearance" to maintain a more appropriate tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ugly face" functions primarily as a descriptive term, combining an adjective ("ugly") with a noun ("face") to denote an unattractive appearance. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is completely correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ugly face" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe an unattractive facial appearance. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. While the phrase is most frequently found in news and media contexts, it is generally considered neutral in register. Writers should be mindful of the potential for offense and consider using softer alternatives like "unattractive face" in formal settings. Understanding the nuances of this phrase and its alternatives can help writers communicate effectively and sensitively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unappealing face

A straightforward substitute, indicating a lack of attractiveness.

unattractive face

Replaces "ugly" with a more neutral term for lack of beauty.

hideous visage

Uses a more dramatic and archaic term for "face", implying extreme ugliness.

badly formed face

Emphasizes the structural imperfections that contribute to ugliness.

unsightly features

Focuses on specific aspects of the face that are unpleasant to look at.

unlovely countenance

Employs more formal language to describe an unattractive face.

ill-favored face

An old-fashioned way of saying "unattractive face".

unprepossessing face

Suggests that the face does not make a good first impression.

plain face

Indicates a lack of striking or beautiful features, a more subtle expression.

homely face

Suggests a face that is ordinary and lacking in beauty, often with a comforting connotation.

FAQs

How can I use "ugly face" in a sentence?

You can use "ugly face" to describe someone's physical appearance or their facial expression. For example, "He made an ugly face when he tasted the sour milk" or "The villain was described as having an ugly face".

What can I say instead of "ugly face"?

Alternatives include "unattractive face", "homely face", or "plain face", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "ugly face" in formal writing?

Generally, no. "Ugly face" is considered informal and can be seen as rude. In formal contexts, use more polite and descriptive terms, such as "unattractive features" or "unflattering appearance".

What is the difference between "ugly face" and "unattractive face"?

"Ugly face" is a more direct and potentially harsh way of describing someone's appearance. "Unattractive face" is a milder and more polite alternative.