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grin

noun C1 Formal

Meaning

A grin is a broad smile that typically conveys a sense of amusement, satisfaction, or mischief, often characterized by the showing of teeth and an upward curvature of the lips; it can also imply a sense of irony or sarcasm depending on the context in whic
💡 While "grin" is often associated with positive emotions, it can also carry negative connotations, such as when used to express disdain or mockery; thus, the context is crucial for accurate interpretation.

Example Sentences

He wore a wide grin after hearing the good news .
His confident grin showed he was ready for the presentation .
The scientist's grin reflected satisfaction after successful experiment results .

Word in Context

After struggling with the jammed kettle valve for half an hour , Sarah finally freed it and stood back , a small grin spreading across her face as steam began to rise . She had been reluctant to attempt the fix because the instructions looked complicated , but the satisfying hiss and steady flow proved she could handle ordinary repairs . When Mrs . Alvarez next door noticed and complimented her , Sarah nodded with quiet pride and felt her confidence grow . Sitting down at the table with a cup of tea , she reflected on how these modest achievements altered her expectations about what she could do . The afternoon settled into a calm routine , and she resolved to approach future tasks with the same deliberate patience .

Common Phrases

wry grin mischievous grin toothy grin

Synonyms

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