Be written all over somebody’s face

usgb
verb phrase

To be very obvious or visible.

His guilt was written all over his face.
Visual representation of "be written all over somebody’s face" - To be very obvious or visible.

Often appears as...

  • guilt is written all over his face
  • happiness is written all over her face

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "be written all over somebody’s face"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Non-Literal Meaning

The phrase doesn't mean actual writing, but that the feeling is so clear it might as well be.

Illustration for Non-Literal Meaning
When she won the award, joy was written all over her face.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negative Emotions

It's often used to describe negative emotions that someone tries to hide, but fails.

Illustration for Negative Emotions
Even though he pretended to be fine, his sadness was written all over his face.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Positive Emotions

It can also highlight positive feelings that are unmistakably displayed.

Illustration for Positive Emotions
Her pride in her children's achievements was written all over her face.
Visual representation of the word "Be written all over somebody’s face"

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