1 A2 neutral
To direct a frowning expression at someone or something to show displeasure or disapproval.
"The teacher frowned at the student who was talking during the test."
inseparable
frown at
A2 neutral inseparable transitive
To make a frowning facial expression directed at a person or thing, showing disapproval, confusion, or displeasure.
In plain English
To look at someone or something with your eyebrows pulled down, showing you are unhappy, confused, or don't like it.
What does "frown at" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 A2 neutral
To look at something with a frown, showing confusion or puzzlement.
"She frowned at the instructions — none of it made any sense to her."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To direct a frown toward someone or something (fully transparent).
Actually means
To look at someone or something with your eyebrows pulled down, showing you are unhappy, confused, or don't like it.
Usage tip
Used to describe a specific physical action or facial expression aimed at a target. Can show disapproval, confusion, or concentration. Common in both written and spoken English at all levels.
Words that pair with "frown at"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
screen message child question behaviour sign
How to conjugate "frown at"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
frown at
I/you/we/they
3rd person
frowns at
he/she/it
Past simple
frowned at
yesterday
Past participle
frowned at
have + pp
-ing form
frowning at
continuous
Hear "frown at" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "frown at" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "frown at"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
glare at glower at look disapprovingly at scowl at
Keep exploring
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