If looks could kill…
phrase
Used to describe someone's angry, furious or disapproving glare.
James gave Nancy a cold stare, if looks could kill, she would be dead by now.

Often appears as...
- if looks could kill
- she'd be dead
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
Used to describe someone's angry, furious or disapproving glare.
James gave Nancy a cold stare, if looks could kill, she would be dead by now.

Often appears as...
- if looks could kill
- she'd be dead
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1

Anger Intensity
This phrase exaggerates the power of someone's angry look to cause harm.

At the meeting, Lisa's glare was so severe — if looks could kill, we'd all be in trouble.
Not Literal
Remember, the phrase is metaphorical and humorous, not a literal threat.

Mom found out I lied - if looks could kill, I'd have vanished on the spot!
High Tension
Use when describing situations where there's a lot of unspoken anger or disapproval.

If looks could kill, the silence between the two rivals could have been deadly.
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