Facial expressions in English, with pictures
This page teaches common words for looking, smiling, and showing feelings with your face. Try practicing each expression in a mirror as you say it.
/stɛər/
To look at someone or something for a long time without moving your eyes.
“It is rude to stare at people on the train.”
frown
/fraʊn/
To move your eyebrows together because you are worried, unhappy, or confused.
“She began to frown when reading the difficult message.”
smirk
/smɜːrk/
To smile in an annoying way that shows you feel superior or pleased with yourself.
“Wipe that smirk off your face right now.”
glare
/ɡlɛər/
To look directly at someone in a very angry way.
“The teacher gave him a fierce glare for talking.”
wink
/wɪŋk/
To quickly close and open only one eye as a secret signal.
“He gave me a friendly wink across the room.”
pout
/paʊt/
To push your lips out to show you are upset or displeased.
“Children often pout when they do not get candy.”
squint
/skwɪnt/
To look through partly closed eyes to see more clearly.
“I had to squint in the bright afternoon sunlight.”
blush
/blʌʃ/
To turn red in the cheeks from embarrassment or shyness.
“Compliments always make her blush deeply.”
blink
/blɪŋk/
To shut and open both eyes very quickly.
“Dust got in my eye, making me blink constantly.”
