PhrasesHub

awkward glances

    Definitions

      • discomfort or unease
        Describing a situation where people exchange uncomfortable or embarrassed looks, often due to a socially awkward or tense atmosphere

      • suspicion or skepticism
        Referring to the exchange of looks that convey doubt or distrust, often in a subtle or nonverbal manner

    Examples of awkward glances

    • During the job interview, the candidate kept sneaking awkward glances at their watch, which made the interviewer feel uncomfortable and doubtful about their level of interest in the position.

      The phrase "awkward glances" is used to describe the candidate's behavior of looking away or downward with an uneasy expression, particularly at the interviewer, during the conversation. This action can convey a lack of confidence, discomfort, or lack of interest in the interviewer or the job opportunity, which can hurt the candidate's chances of getting the job.

    • In the crowded elevator, the two strangers kept stealing awkward glances at each other, which created an uncomfortable silence and tension.

      In this context, "awkward glances" refers to brief, surreptitious looks exchanged between two people, particularly in an awkward or uncomfortable situation, such as being trapped in a small space like an elevator. This action can reveal social discomfort, unease, or mutual attraction, depending on the context and the people involved.

    • At the wedding reception, the ex-boyfriend and the current boyfriend kept exchanging awkward glances, which made the bride-to-be uncomfortable and unsure of how to handle the situation.

      In this scenario, "awkward glances" represent the tense and uncomfortable eye contact between the two men, particularly in the presence of the woman they both care or cared about. This action can signal unresolved feelings, jealousy, or hostility, which can create a tense and awkward social dynamic.

    • During the first date, the couple kept exchanging awkward glances, which made them both nervous and unsure of how to proceed.

      In this case, "awkward glances" refer to the shy and apprehensive looks exchanged between two people who are getting to know each other for the first time. This action can reflect social anxiety, shyness, or lack of confidence in oneself or in the date, which can impede the development of romantic chemistry.

    • At the job interview, the candidate received awkward glances from the interviewer while answering certain questions.

      This idiom is used to describe a situation where someone receives uncomfortable and unfamiliar looks from others. In this example, the candidate is being judged by the interviewer, and the uncomfortable looks could indicate that the interviewer is not satisfied with the candidate's answers.

    • During the presentation, some members of the audience gave awkward glances to each other, as if they were not impressed with what was being said.

      This idiom is used to describe a situation where people in a group exchange unfamiliar and uncomfortable looks, possibly indicating that they have a common opinion or feeling. Here, the audience members might be thinking that the presentation is not up to their expectations.

    • There were awkward glances between the two friends, as they both seemed to be hiding something from each other.

      This idiom is used to describe a situation where people exchange unfamiliar and uncomfortable looks, possibly indicating that they have secrets or disagreements they are trying to hide. Here, the two friends might be keeping something from each other that is causing tension in their relationship.

    • The couple received awkward glances from other guests at the wedding reception, as they seemed to be having a heated argument.

      This idiom is used to describe a situation where people in a public place exchange unfamiliar and uncomfortable looks, possibly indicating that they are involved in some kind of unpleasant situation. Here, the other guests might be noticing that the couple is having a disagreement, making them feel uncomfortable.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "awkward glances" can be used to describe both uncomfortable situations and exchanges of suspicion or skepticism through nonverbal communication. It highlights the unease or doubt present in a given context and can be used in various social or professional settings to convey these feelings.

    Origin of "awkward glances"

    The origin of the idiom "awkward glances" can be traced back to the use of the word "awkward" to describe situations that are uncomfortable or not easily managed. The word "glance" refers to a quick or brief look, often conveying a specific emotion or message. When combined, "awkward glances" came to represent the discomfort or suspicion conveyed through nonverbal communication. The idiom has become a common way to describe tense or uneasy situations, reflecting the universal experience of discomfort in social interactions. Examples of its use can be found in literature and everyday conversations, highlighting its enduring relevance in expressing social unease and skepticism.