Inexpressive: meaning, definitions and examples

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inexpressive

 

[ ɪnɪk'sprɛsɪv ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

lack of expression

Inexpressive refers to a lack of emotion or expression in one's face or demeanor. It describes someone who does not show their feelings externally, leaving their emotions concealed. This quality can lead to misunderstandings in social interactions, where outward expression often conveys inner thoughts or feelings. People described as inexpressive may be perceived as aloof or uninterested, yet their internal experiences can be rich and intense.

Synonyms

blank, dispassionate, impassive, stoic, unemotional.

Examples of usage

  • His inexpressive face made it hard to know how he felt.
  • Despite her inexpressive demeanor, she experienced intense emotions inside.
  • The inexpressive dialogue created a tension in the room.
  • She remained inexpressive during the presentation, causing the audience to feel disconnected.

Translations

Translations of the word "inexpressive" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inexpressivo

🇮🇳 अव्यक्त

🇩🇪 ausdruckslos

🇮🇩 tidak ekspresif

🇺🇦 невиразний

🇵🇱 niewyrazisty

🇯🇵 表現力のない

🇫🇷 inexpressif

🇪🇸 inexpresivo

🇹🇷 ifadesiz

🇰🇷 표현력이 없는

🇸🇦 غير معبر

🇨🇿 nevyjadřující

🇸🇰 nevyjadrujúci

🇨🇳 无表达力的

🇸🇮 neizrazitven

🇮🇸 óhugsandi

🇰🇿 өзіндік емес

🇬🇪 არაბრუნებული

🇦🇿 ifadəsiz

🇲🇽 inexpresivo

Etymology

The word 'inexpressive' is formed from the prefix 'in-', meaning 'not,' and the root 'expressive,' which comes from the Latin 'expressivus,' meaning 'to press out' or 'to convey.' The concept of expression has been significant in the English language since its early use, indicating the communication of thoughts or feelings. The first known use of 'inexpressive' was in the early 19th century, reflecting a growing understanding of the nuances of human emotional states. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass various contexts in psychology, literature, and everyday conversation, often highlighting the contrasts between internal feelings and external representations.