expression
uhk-SPREHSH-n
Expression (noun) means the act of communicating a thought, feeling, or idea, especially through words, art, or behaviour. Example: “Freedom of expression is protected by law.”
noun
1
The act of communicating a thought, feeling, or idea, especially through words, art, or behaviour.
"Freedom of expression is protected by law."
"Dance is her main form of expression."
"Music is a powerful form of expression for many teenagers."
2
A particular phrase or way of saying something, or a common saying.
""Raining cats and dogs" is a strange old expression."
""Break a leg" is an expression actors use to wish each other luck."
"I did not know that expression until my teacher used it."
3
A look on someone's face that shows how they feel.
"His expression changed the moment he heard the news."
"She had a puzzled expression on her face."
"The baby's expression turned to delight when he saw the dog."
4
A mathematical or logical combination of symbols representing a value.
"Simplify the expression before solving for x."
"The teacher asked us to write an expression for the area of the rectangle."
"In this equation, the expression on the left equals the one on the right."
How to use expression
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA way of showing thoughts or feelings — in words, art, a facial look, or a mathematical formula.
Common pairings
facial expression
freedom of expression
a common expression
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Word forms
- Plural
- expressions
Fill the gap
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Freedom of _____ is protected by law.
Etymology
From Latin expressiō, "a pressing out", from the same root as "express".
Synonyms
View more →Antonyms
Related words
Rhymes for expression
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for expression →
Frequently asked questions
What does “expression” mean?
The word “expression” means the act of communicating a thought, feeling, or idea, especially through words, art, or behaviour. In plain terms, a way of showing thoughts or feelings — in words, art, a facial look, or a mathematical formula.
How do you pronounce “expression”?
“Expression” is pronounced uhk-SPREHSH-n (/əkˈspɹɛʃ.n̩/ in IPA).
How do you use “expression” in a sentence?
Here is “expression” used in a sentence: “Freedom of expression is protected by law.”
What part of speech is “expression”?
“Expression” is a noun.
Where does the word “expression” come from?
The word “expression” comes from Latin. From Latin expressiō, "a pressing out", from the same root as "express".
Is “expression” a common word?
“Expression” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A2 level.
How many meanings does “expression” have?
“Expression” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the act of communicating a thought, feeling, or idea, especially through words, art, or behaviour.
What are the main types of expression?
Expression takes many forms. Verbal expression uses spoken or written words, while artistic expression works through music, painting, dance, or design. There is also facial and bodily expression, which conveys feeling without words. Creative and emotional expression describe the wider urge to share what we think and feel with others.
What is freedom of expression?
Freedom of expression is the right to share your thoughts, opinions, and ideas openly, whether in speech, writing, art, or protest, without fear of censorship. Widely regarded as a cornerstone of democratic society, it is not always absolute, and most legal systems place limits on things like incitement or defamation.
What is the difference between expression and communication?
Expression is the act of giving outward form to a thought or feeling, putting it into words, art, or gesture. Communication goes a step further, involving an exchange in which a message is both sent and received. You can express yourself alone, but communication needs someone to take in the message.
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