Definition

Noun: 1. The look on a person's face that conveys their feelings or reaction: The combination of movements and positions of the eyes, eyebrows, mouth, and other facial features that communicates an emotion, attitude, or state of mind. 2. A specific configuration of the face showing a particular emotion: A distinct, recognizable look such as a smile, frown, or scowl.

Usage

• The term "facial expression" is used to describe the non-verbal communication shown on someone's face.
• It is often analyzed to understand a person's emotional state or reaction.
• It can be a conscious, deliberate act or an unconscious, spontaneous reaction.

Examples

• Her facial expression immediately changed from curiosity to shock when she heard the news.
• The actor is skilled at conveying complex emotions through subtle facial expressions.
• A genuine smile is a facial expression that involves the muscles around the eyes.
• I could tell from his facial expression that he did not agree with the decision.

Advanced Usage

• "To read someone's facial expression": To interpret or try to understand what someone is feeling based on the look on their face.
  • A good negotiator learns to read the other party's facial expressions.
• "A blank/poker facial expression": A face that shows no emotion or reaction, often to hide one's true feelings.
  • He maintained a poker facial expression throughout the interrogation.

Variants and Related Words

• Expression (n): Often used synonymously with "facial expression" in context.
  • His expression was unreadable.
• Look (n): A word for a specific type of facial expression.
  • She gave him a warning look.
• Countenance (n): A formal word for a person's face or facial expression.
  • His stern countenance discouraged further questions.

Synonyms

• Face (in the context of showing emotion, e.g., "an angry face")
• Visage (a literary term for face or expression)
• Mien (a person's look or manner, often reflecting their character or mood)

Related Phrases

• Facial gesture: A deliberate movement of part of the face to communicate something.
  • Raising an eyebrow is a common facial gesture of skepticism.

Noun

1. the feelings expressed on a person's face
   • a sad expression
   • a look of triumph
   • an angry face
2. a gesture executed with the facial muscles