wicked smile

USAGE SUMMARY

"wicked smile" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when you want to convey that someone's smile looks mischievous or malicious. For example, "He gave me a wicked smile as he told me he was leaving town."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

A wicked smile.

The Guardian - Books

Well, I do.' A wicked smile, and a flash of serene candour.

The Guardian - Books

Where do think you are, Sweden?" the officer asked with a wicked smile.

The New Yorker

He had gray, frizzy hair, shaggy eyebrows, and a wicked smile.

The New Yorker

"Rather a nice place for chief executives to go," says Petrenko, with a wicked smile.

The Guardian - Music

He looks like the nice, ordinary one, but he often has a trace of a wicked smile.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Behind his shoulder, just beneath her unblinking plastic eyes, Narcissister's mouth curled into a wicked, knowing smile.

The New York Times

He told me that he caught Cheney's "wicked little smile" on his way out, adding, "I think the President only knows what Cheney lets in there".

The New Yorker

He has a wicked, twisted smile suggesting there will always be more exotic pleasures to be discovered as long as the sun hasn't come up yet.

The New York Times

Mr. Rimalower (who was looking dapper in vest, tie, buttoned-up shirt and jeans) offered a wicked little smile and said, to appreciative cheers, "That's my 11 o'clock show".

The New York Times

She then adds, quoting Fremlin with the slightly wicked half-smile that accompanies all her best anecdotes: "My husband always says that if I hadn't gotten out in time, I would have developed into a sad character out of a New England novel.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "wicked smile" to vividly depict a character's mischievous, sly, or slightly malevolent expression, adding depth to their personality and intentions.

Common error

Avoid using "wicked smile" in contexts that require genuine empathy or concern, as it can undermine the intended emotional impact and appear inappropriate.

Linguistic Context

"Wicked smile" functions primarily as a descriptive phrase, modifying a noun (usually a person) by depicting a specific type of smile. It characterizes the smile as mischievous, slightly evil, or sly. Ludwig AI confirms the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "wicked smile" is a commonly used and grammatically correct expression that describes a mischievous, sly, or slightly malevolent smile. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. Its descriptive power makes it a valuable tool for adding depth to character portrayals in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While versatile, it's important to consider the context and avoid overuse in situations requiring genuine empathy. Alternatives such as "sly smirk" or "malicious grin" may offer more nuanced descriptions depending on the desired tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

malicious grin

Focuses more on the malicious intent behind the smile, emphasizing malevolence.

evil grin

Portrays a malevolent and sinister smile, suggesting malicious intent.

sly smirk

Implies a secretive and cunning expression, with a touch of arrogance.

mischievous grin

Suggests a playful, teasing intent behind the smile.

devious smile

Suggests a sly and underhanded nature, implying a plot or scheme.

knowing smile

Emphasizes shared secret or understanding, implying exclusiveness.

cunning smile

Highlights the clever and strategic nature of the smile, often suggesting deception.

impish grin

Conveys a playful, mischievous smile, often associated with youthful energy.

sardonic smile

Highlights a cynical and mocking expression, often tinged with bitterness.

enigmatic smile

Implies mystery and inscrutability, leaving the observer uncertain of the true intent.

FAQs

How can I use "wicked smile" in a sentence?

You can use "wicked smile" to describe a character's expression when they are feeling mischievous, sly, or slightly malevolent. For instance, "He gave a "wicked smile" as he revealed his prank."

What's the difference between "wicked smile" and a "mischievous grin"?

While both suggest a playful expression, a "mischievous grin" is generally more lighthearted and innocent, while a "wicked smile" implies a darker, slyer intent.

Are there any synonyms for "wicked smile"?

Yes, you could use phrases like "sly smirk", "knowing smile", or "malicious grin" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "wicked smile" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "wicked smile" may be too informal or evocative for certain formal contexts. Consider using a more neutral or precise descriptor depending on the tone of your writing.