unexpressive
/'ʌniks'presiv/
Definition
Adjective: - Deliberately impassive in manner: Showing a deliberate lack of emotion, feeling, or expression; characterized by a blank or inscrutable demeanor. - Not conveying or revealing emotion or meaning: Lacking the ability or tendency to express thoughts, feelings, or character.
Usage
The adjective "unexpressive" describes a person, face, or manner that does not show emotion or reaction. It often implies a deliberate or inherent lack of expressiveness. - It is typically used to describe a person's face, eyes, or overall demeanor. - It can describe a style of speaking or acting that is flat and devoid of emotional inflection.
Examples
Advanced Usage
- In psychology/communication: Used to describe a trait or a state where an individual shows minimal nonverbal emotional cues.
- Some neurological conditions can lead to an unexpressive affect.
- In critique (art, performance): Used to criticize a lack of emotional depth or communicative power.
- The portrait was technically perfect but ultimately unexpressive.
Variants and Related Words
- Expressionless (adj): Very similar in meaning, often used interchangeably with "unexpressive" to describe a face showing no feeling.
- Impassive (adj): Not feeling or showing emotion; often connotes self-control or insensitivity.
- Deadpan (adj/adv): Deliberately impassive or expressionless, especially when saying something humorous.
- Inexpressive (adj): A less common variant, essentially synonymous with "unexpressive."
- Poker-faced (adj, informal): Having an expression that does not reveal one's thoughts or feelings, like a poker player.
Synonyms
- Blank
- Stoic
- Unemotional
- Wooden (especially regarding performance)
- Inscrutable
Antonyms
- Expressive
- Animated
- Demonstrative
- Emotive
- Elastic (of a face)
Related Phrases and Idioms
- To keep a straight face: To manage not to laugh or smile, maintaining an unexpressive demeanor.
- The joke was so funny it was hard to keep a straight face.
- A face like a mask: An idiom describing a completely unexpressive, rigid face.
- He listened to the accusations with a face like a mask.
Adjective
-
deliberately impassive in manner
-
deadpan humor
-
his face remained expressionless as the verdict was read
-
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