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expression · noun /ɪkˈspreʃ.ən/Full view
Nouns: expression
Adjectives: expressive, expressionless
Verbs: express
Adverbs: expressively
expression (PHRASE)
B2 C a word or phrase
Dictionary examples:

He uses a lot of informal expressions.

'"A can of worms" is an expression which means "a difficult situation."

Learner example:

With th[ese] kind[s] of videos, they could learn words and expressions used every day by normal people talking to normal people. (First Certificate in English; B2; Spanish)

expression (LOOK)
B2 C the look on someone's face, showing what they feel or think
Dictionary examples:

facial expressions

He had such a sad expression on his face.

I could tell from her expression that something serious had happened.

Learner example:

He had a funny expression on his face. (First Certificate in English; B2; Swedish)

expression (SHOWING THOUGHTS)
B2 C or U when you show what you think or how you feel using words or actions
Dictionary examples:

He wrote her a poem as an expression of his love.

We've received a lot of expressions of support for our campaign.

Freedom of expression is a basic human right.

It's better to give expression to your anger, rather than hiding it.

Learner example:

It always thrilled me, the energy and expression this dance had. (First Certificate in English; B2; German)

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