Straight face Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈstɹeɪt/ /ˈfeɪs

STRAYT FAYS

UK

stɹˈeɪt/ /fˈeɪs

str-AYT f-AYS

Definition

A facial expression that shows no emotion, especially when someone is trying not to laugh or react.

Usage & Nuances

Often used in the phrase 'keep a straight face' (not show any emotion). Common in humorous or ironic situations. It can mean being serious even if something is funny. Not usually used about anger or sadness.

• Spanish: cara seria - rostro serio
• Portuguese (BR): cara séria - rosto sério
• Portuguese (PT): cara séria - rosto sério
• Chinese (Simplified): 面无表情 (保持严肃) - 一本正经的脸
• Chinese (Traditional): 面無表情 (保持嚴肅) - 一本正經的臉
• Hindi: गंभीर चेहरा
• Arabic: وجه جاد
• Bengali: গম্ভীর মুখ - নিরাবেগ মুখ
• Russian: серьёзное лицо
• Japanese: 真顔
• Vietnamese: gương mặt nghiêm túc - mặt tỉnh bơ
• Korean: 무표정 - 진지한 얼굴
• Turkish: ciddi bir yüz - ifadesiz yüz
• Urdu: سنجیدہ چہرہ
• Indonesian: wajah datar - wajah serius

Example Sentences

He told a joke but tried to keep a straight face.

basic

It's hard for me to keep a straight face during meetings.

basic

She answered with a straight face, even though it was funny.

basic

I can't believe you said that with a straight face!

natural

No one could keep a straight face when the cat jumped on the table.

natural

The comedian managed to deliver the joke with a perfectly straight face.

natural