Sadness on the face is often characterized by a specific, tell-tale sign: the angling-up of the inner corners of the eyebrows.
The Defining Feature: Angled Eyebrows
One of the most reliable indicators of sadness is the subtle movement of the eyebrows.
- Angling Up: The inner corners of the eyebrows tend to angle upwards. This is a crucial indicator.
- Difficulty Faking: According to research, few people can voluntarily control the muscles responsible for this specific eyebrow movement. This makes it a more authentic sign of sadness compared to other facial expressions that are easier to fake.
Other Potential Facial Cues (While the Angled Eyebrows are Key)
While the angling of the eyebrows is considered a strong indicator, sadness might also be accompanied by other facial cues. However, these are often less reliable:
- Down-turned mouth: The corners of the mouth might be slightly downturned.
- Drooping eyelids: The upper eyelids might appear droopy or heavy.
- Reduced eye contact: A person experiencing sadness might avoid making direct eye contact.
Summary Table: Facial Expression of Sadness
| Feature | Description | Reliability |
|---|---|---|
| Angled Eyebrows (Inner Corners Up) | The inner corners of the eyebrows angle upwards. | High |
| Down-turned Mouth | Corners of the mouth curve downwards (less reliable). | Low |
| Drooping Eyelids | Eyelids appear heavy or partially closed (less reliable). | Low |
| Reduced Eye Contact | Avoiding direct gaze (less reliable). | Low |
