microexpression
[/ˌmaɪ.kroʊ.ɪkˈsprɛʃ.ən/]
nounpl: microexpressions
microexpressão
1. A brief, involuntary facial expression lasting less than a second that reveals genuine emotions a person is trying to conceal or suppress
The detective noticed a microexpression of guilt flash across the suspect's face when asked about the crime.
O detetive notou uma microexpressão de culpa aparecer rapidamente no rosto do suspeito quando perguntado sobre o crime.
2. In psychology and behavioral analysis, a fleeting facial movement that unconsciously discloses true feelings despite attempts to hide them
Training in reading microexpressions can help negotiators detect dishonesty during business deals.
O treinamento em leitura de microexpressões pode ajudar negociadores a detectar desonestidade durante negociações comerciais.
The term gained prominence through psychologist Paul Ekman's research in the 1960s-70s and became widely known in Brazil and Portugal through criminal investigation programs and psychology courses. In the USA, it's frequently referenced in crime dramas, law enforcement training, and business negotiation courses. The concept represents scientific interest in detecting deception and understanding authentic human emotion.
Related Idioms & Phrases
read someone like a book - detecting true emotions through microexpressions
poker face - inability to show microexpressions
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