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expression

In most contexts, 'expression' is a countable noun (e.g., "a facial expression" or "a mathematical expression"). When referring to the general act of communicating feelingsthe process itselfit can be used as an uncountable noun. Be careful not to confuse the common phrase 'an expression' (meaning a saying) with the technical use in mathematics, though both refer to a specific combination of symbols or words.

💬Casual Conversation

🎬Aboard a deep-space cruiser, Zorg is texting Lt. Vega from the observation deck.
Zorg

I tried that 'keeping a straight face' expression. Did I nail it?

Zorg
Lt. Vega
Lt. Vega

You look like you're having a stroke, Zorg. Knock it off.

💡
Zorg is attempting to learn human idioms and facial expressions but fails miserably. Lt. Vega uses the phrasal verb 'knock it off' (meaning stop doing something annoying) to express her irritation with his antics.

Meanings

noun

The process of making known one's thoughts or feelings.

"She found it difficult to find the right expression for her grief."

noun

A look on someone's face that conveys a particular emotion.

"He had a puzzled expression on his face when I told him the news."

noun

A word or phrase used to convey a specific meaning, often idiomatic.

"'Bite the bullet' is a common English expression."

noun

A finite combination of symbols that is well-formed according to rules when interpreted according to a certain grammar (mathematics/computing).

"In algebra, 2x + 3 is a linear expression."

noun

The action of squeezing liquid from something.

"The expression of the juice from the grapes takes several hours."

Last Updated: May 22, 2026Report an Error