Unexpressiveness

Unexpressiveness refers to the lack of outward display or communication of emotions, thoughts, or feelings. It manifests as a neutral or impassive demeanor, often characterized by a flat tone of voice, minimal facial expressions, and limited body language. This absence of emotional or communicative cues can make it difficult for others to understand the individual's internal state and intentions, potentially leading to misinterpretations or feelings of detachment. It can stem from various factors, including personality traits, cultural norms, psychological conditions, or deliberate attempts at self-control or concealment.

Unexpressiveness meaning with examples

• His poker face was a masterclass in unexpressiveness, making it impossible to discern whether he held a winning hand or a losing one. The other players scrutinized him, attempting to read any tell, but found none. His carefully constructed unexpressiveness served as a formidable shield, protecting his strategy and increasing his chances of winning the pot.
• After the tragic news, her initial response was unexpressiveness, a silent shock that kept all emotions locked away. Later, the delayed tears and words revealed the depth of her grief. Her unexpressiveness during the first few hours of receiving bad news created a chasm that friends struggled to bridge; the quiet intensity felt isolating to those around her.
• The actor’s deliberate unexpressiveness in the role of the spy heightened the tension and suspense. His muted reactions and impassive gaze left the audience uncertain of his true allegiance. This calculated unexpressiveness perfectly mirrored the character's training in deception. The film's success was due, in part, to this masterful presentation.
• His social awkwardness manifested as a chronic unexpressiveness, where even positive interactions remained bland, with only the faintest of reactions. The way his demeanor could be perceived as dismissive, regardless of intention. While he genuinely enjoyed company, his unexpressiveness created a barrier in interpersonal communication and connection, making it hard for people to get close.
• The therapist noticed the patient's persistent unexpressiveness, a flat affect that made it difficult to gauge the severity of their depression. She tried, using different therapeutic techniques, to elicit responses to gauge the scope of the patients issues. Identifying the root causes of the unexpressiveness was a crucial step in treating the patient, but also proved difficult.