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expressive

meaningful / eloquent / revealing / emotional
Adjective
comp: more expressivesup: most expressive

This term describes the ability of a person, an object, or a piece of art to externalize internal states. It suggests a transparency where the internal emotion is vividly mirrored in the external form, such as a facial twitch or a melodic phrase. While "eloquent" often refers to the sophisticated use of language, "expressive" encompasses a broader range of non-verbal communication, including gestures, tones, and visual arts. In artistic contexts, it implies a depth of feeling that transcends mere technical skill, aiming to evoke a specific emotional response from the observer. It is almost always used with a positive or neutral connotation, suggesting clarity and emotional honesty rather than exaggeration.

Meanings

Adjective
[~ of something]

Effectively conveying a thought, feeling, or quality through a particular medium or appearance.

"Her face was incredibly expressive, revealing her disappointment immediately."

Adjective
[~]

Capable of conveying a great deal of emotion or meaning, especially through artistic or linguistic means.

"The pianist gave an expressive performance that moved the entire audience to tears."

Adjective
[~]

Clearly showing a particular emotion or state of mind.

"He gave her an expressive look of longing as she walked away."

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Last Updated: June 12, 2026Report an Error