1.
composed face; straight face; prim expression
A calm, unruffled facial expression that shows no emotion or reaction. Can imply genuine composure, but often carries a nuance of putting on airs, feigning innocence, or acting as if nothing has happened.
Despite being late, he walked into the classroom with a straight face as if nothing had happened.
Composed of すました (past form of すます, meaning to compose oneself / put on a prim demeanor) and 顔 (face). The expression often carries an undertone of criticism or irony — the person appears calm or indifferent when they should be showing a reaction, such as embarrassment, guilt, or concern.
Common collocations
- すました顔をする: to put on a composed/straight face
- すました顔で答える: to answer with a straight face
- すました顔で嘘をつく: to lie with a straight face