Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for expressive. Search instead for expressme.
Definitions

expressive

[ik-spres-iv] / ɪkˈsprɛs ɪv /


Usage

What are other ways to say expressive? The adjective expressive suggests conveying, or being capable of conveying, a thought, intention, emotion, etc., in an effective or vivid manner: an expressive gesture. Meaningful and significant imply an underlying and unexpressed thought whose existence is plainly shown although its precise nature is left to conjecture. Meaningful implies a secret and intimate understanding between the persons involved: Meaningful looks passed between them. Significant suggests conveying important or hidden meaning: On hearing this statement, he gave the officers a significant glance. Suggestive implies an indirect or covert conveying of a meaning, sometimes mentally stimulating, sometimes verging on impropriety or indecency: a suggestive story or remark.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Now, eight months after Brian Wilson’s death in June at age 82, a new box set looks back at the era as an expressive outpouring led by the band’s rejuvenated visionary.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 27, 2026

Whether he was laughing, brooding or crumpling into sobs to create one of the most well-known and widely circulated meme GIFs of all time, Van Der Beek’s expressive appeal propelled him to virtually overnight superstardom.

From Salon • Feb. 15, 2026

Carlo Ancelotti has won more Champions Leagues than Pep Guardiola, no matter how expressive he is or otherwise.

From BBC • Feb. 8, 2026

Never the most comfortable or expressive in front of the media, she quickly became tired of questions about it as her rise to prominence began.

From Barron's • Jan. 30, 2026

Photographs from Ernest’s adolescence portray a handsome young boy, with his mother’s full lips and his father’s expressive blue eyes.

From "Big Science" by Michael Hiltzik