wide smile

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "wide smile" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to describe someone's facial expression, usually in response to something pleasant or amusing. For example, "He greeted us with a wide smile."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A wide smile.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Stunning" qualifies the wide smile.

The New Yorker

First, Lincicome approached with a wide smile.

The New York Times - Sports

The wide smile was long gone.

The New York Times - Sports

A wide smile spread across his face.

The New York Times - Sports

Griffin broke into a wide smile.

The New York Times - Sports

Then a wide smile spread across his face.

The New York Times

She has a wide smile and a raspy laugh.

The New York Times

He has a wide smile and good looks.

The Economist

A wide smile, eyes often closed, palms outstretched.

The New Yorker

"Water chestnuts!" she said, with a wide smile.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "broad grin" or "beaming smile" for variety, depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Common error

Avoid using "wide smile" repeatedly within a short passage. Vary your descriptions with alternatives to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "wide smile" functions as a noun phrase where "wide" is an adjective modifying the noun "smile". Ludwig confirms it's used to describe a facial expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "wide smile" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a happy or amused facial expression. Ludwig confirms its proper usage across a range of contexts, primarily in news and media. While versatile, varying your descriptions with synonyms like "broad grin" or "beaming smile" can enhance your writing. Avoiding overuse and considering the specific emotional tone you wish to convey are key to effective communication. Overall, "wide smile" remains a reliable and readily understood descriptor.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

broad grin

Replaces "smile" with "grin" and "wide" with "broad", emphasizing the extent of the smile.

beaming smile

Uses "beaming" to highlight the radiant and joyful nature of the smile.

expansive smile

Emphasizes the all-encompassing nature of the smile, suggesting it fills the face.

ear-to-ear grin

A more emphatic way of describing a very wide and happy smile.

radiant smile

Focuses on the glowing and positive feeling conveyed by the smile.

cheerful smile

Highlights the happy and optimistic quality of the smile.

joyful expression

Shifts from describing the smile itself to the overall expression of joy.

happy countenance

Uses a more formal term, "countenance", to refer to a face showing happiness.

delighted look

Focuses on the look or expression of delight, rather than the smile itself.

pleased expression

Indicates an expression of satisfaction and contentment.

FAQs

How can I describe a "wide smile"?

You can describe a "wide smile" using alternatives like "broad grin", "beaming smile", or "radiant smile" to add more nuance to your writing.

Is it okay to use "wide smile" in formal writing?

Yes, "wide smile" is generally acceptable in formal writing. However, for a more sophisticated tone, consider using alternatives such as "expansive smile" or "happy countenance".

What does it mean when someone gives a "wide smile"?

A "wide smile" typically indicates happiness, joy, or amusement. It can also convey friendliness or sincerity, depending on the context.

What are some other adjectives to use with "smile" besides "wide"?

Besides "wide", you can use adjectives like "bright", "gentle", "warm", or "genuine" to describe a smile more specifically. Each adjective adds a different shade of meaning to the description.