expression
The word centers on the act of "pressing out"—whether it is a physical liquid, an internal emotion, or a mathematical value. It represents the transition from something hidden or contained to something visible and external. In social contexts, it describes the bridge between internal thought and external communication. When referring to a facial expression, it is about the involuntary or voluntary signal sent to others; when referring to a linguistic expression, it is the specific tool used to package an idea for another person's understanding. Unlike "statement," which implies a factual claim, "expression" often suggests a more creative, emotional, or symbolic manifestation. In technical fields like math and coding, it refers to a structured formula that can be evaluated to produce a single result.
Countable when referring to a specific phrase ('a common expression'), a facial look ('a puzzled expression'), or a math formula ('a linear expression'). Uncountable when referring to the general act of conveying emotion ('freedom of expression') or the physical process of squeezing out liquid ('the expression of juice').
💬Casual Conversation
I tried that 'keeping a straight face' expression. Did I nail it?
You look like you're having a stroke, Zorg. Knock it off.
Meanings
The process of making known one's thoughts or feelings.
"She found it difficult to find the right expression for her grief."
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."
A word or phrase used to convey a specific meaning, often idiomatic.
"'Bite the bullet' is a common English expression."
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."
Collocations & Compounds
facial expression
the look on a person's face
Her facial expression remained neutral during the trial.
mathematical expression
a formula consisting of symbols
The student struggled to simplify the mathematical expression.
mode of expression
the way something is communicated
Painting is her preferred mode of expression.
common expression
a phrase used frequently by many people
To hit the nail on the head is a common expression.
artistic expression
the use of art to convey ideas
The gallery is a hub for bold artistic expression.