Body Language 101: Facial Expressions

Often in my writing, I find myself searching for ways to describe a character’s body language so my reader can “see” the way he/she delivers a particular line of dialogue or to give a clue as to what they’re thinking. And since this is a challenge I figured all writers face, I thought I’d share some information I ran across in my research on the subject in hopes that it could serve as a good resource.

The six emotions expressed primarily by facial expressions are:

1. Happiness
2. Sadness
3. Disgust
4. Anger
5. Fear
6. Interest

Happiness

Happiness is primarily seen in the cheeks, mouth, and eyes. When people are happy, they often smile (though smiles can also be used to show aggression and sarcasm). When happy to the point of excitement, their eyes make rapid scanning movements. Happiness can also be characterized through speech by having your character raise his volume, use a sharper tone, use a breathless voice, talk faster than normal, and by stressing key words and phrases in their dialogue. An “eyebrow flash” and smile can be used to show pleasure upon seeing someone.

Sadness

Like disappointment and depression, sadness is often expressed by a lack of expression, turning down the corners of the mouth, looking down with the eyes, or by sagging features. There could also be tears, trembling of the lips, or attempts to hide one’s face.

Disgust

Disgust is often shown by a narrowing of the eyes, turning one’s face away from the source of disgust, a wrinkling of the nose, and a grimace.

Anger

In the face, anger is usually expressed by frowning or scowling, narrowing the eyes, and staring at the source of offense. Some people’s faces drain of color when they’re angry, or their face could go red or purple. The entire body is usually tense, as if ready to attack.

Fear

Fear can be shown with wide eyes, an open mouth, trembling, perspiration, and/or paling of the skin.

Interest

Interest is often shown by cocking the head, widening the eyes slightly, and perhaps even opening the mouth slightly. You could also use a raised eyebrow.

Of course, body language is only one way for your characters to communicate. But it does play an important role in supporting (or contradicting) what your character is saying, doing, or thinking.

Right now I’m making a happy face because this post is finally finished!