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.

In the troika of major figures in the Russian Revolution, Trotsky stood for ideas and Stalin represented power; their predecessor, Vladimir Lenin, had fused the two values as the frowning avatar of communist leadership.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 27, 2026

She grinned as she explained that some sculptures of famed Buddhist monk Ji Gong even showed him smiling on one side of his face and frowning on the other.

From Barron's • Jan. 19, 2026

"He just kinda crept up on the guy and was looming over his shoulder and frowning at him while the guy was speaking."

From Salon • Aug. 27, 2024

A frowning Joshua looked full of purpose as he strutted to the ring with confidence.

From BBC • Mar. 8, 2024

Grace and Jake went to Emma’s room, where Emma was frowning at a Spanish-language worksheet.

From "The Smartest Kid in the Universe" by Chris Grabenstein