winning smile

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "winning smile" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a smile that is particularly charming or attractive, often implying that it has the power to win people over. Example: "Her winning smile lit up the room and made everyone feel at ease."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A serious expression replaced the winning smile.

The New Yorker

Flamboyant hair and a winning smile.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A legion of fans now love that winning smile.

Independent

It's surprising what you can do with a winning smile.

The Economist

He robbed trains and banks with a winning smile.

The Economist

Bashary wears a sharp suit and a winning smile.

The Guardian - Opinion

Though she's engaged, Jacqueline puts on her most winning smile.

The New York Times

Now," he said with a winning smile, "it's recess".

The New York Times

His winning smile and giggling shrugs suggest self-effacement, but the appearance is deceiving.

The New York Times

These girls want to win, which means tight abs, silky hair and a winning smile.

The New York Times - Books

This human Pinterest board has a winning smile and an airtight alibi.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "winning smile" to describe a smile that not only looks good but also has a disarming or persuasive effect on others. It's best suited when the smile contributes to the subject's success or positive interaction.

Common error

While "winning smile" is widely understood, overuse in formal or academic writing can sound cliché. Opt for more specific descriptions of the smile, such as "confident smile" or "reassuring smile", depending on the context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "winning smile" functions primarily as an adjective-noun combination that modifies a subject. According to Ludwig, it's correct and usable in written English. It describes a smile that is particularly charming or attractive, often implying it has the power to win people over, as seen in many of the examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Science

6%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "winning smile" is a common and acceptable way to describe a particularly charming and effective smile. According to Ludwig, its main function is to emphasize the attractive and persuasive qualities of a person's smile. While mainly found in news and media, it is considered more neutral than formal. Alternative phrases like "charming smile" or "captivating smile" may be more appropriate in certain contexts. Overall, "winning smile" is a useful and widely understood phrase for portraying a smile's positive impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

charming smile

Replaces "winning" with "charming", focusing on the smile's delightful quality.

captivating smile

Emphasizes the smile's ability to hold attention and fascinate.

alluring smile

Highlights the smile's seductive and attractive nature.

magnetic smile

Suggests the smile has a strong pull, drawing people in.

irresistible smile

Focuses on the smile's overwhelming appeal and inability to be resisted.

engaging smile

Highlights the smile's ability to connect and involve others.

appealing smile

A general term for a smile that is attractive and pleasing.

attractive smile

A straightforward description of a smile that is visually pleasing.

persuasive smile

Highlights the smile's ability to influence and convince.

genuine smile

Highlights that the smile is authentic and heartfelt.

FAQs

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

You can use "winning smile" to describe someone whose smile is particularly charming or effective at gaining favor. For example, "He flashed a "winning smile" as he closed the deal."

What are some alternatives to "winning smile"?

Alternatives to "winning smile" include "charming smile", "captivating smile", or "persuasive smile", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "winning smile" in formal writing?

While "winning smile" is generally acceptable, it might be perceived as informal in some academic or professional contexts. Consider using a more precise description if formality is important.

What makes a smile a "winning smile" as opposed to just a regular smile?

A "winning smile" implies that the smile is not just visually appealing, but also conveys confidence, sincerity, and an ability to positively influence others. It suggests the smile is a key factor in the person's success or positive interactions.