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Smiles can convey a range of emotions beyond just happiness. Here are six common types of smiles and what they reveal about a person’s true feelings:
- Duchenne Smile
- Description: This is the most genuine type of smile, involving both the mouth and the eyes, with “crow’s feet” appearing around the eyes. It signals true happiness, sincerity, and warmth.
- Polite Smile
- Description: Used in formal or social settings to convey courtesy, this smile is more about social harmony. It typically involves only the mouth with minimal eye engagement, lacking the depth of a Duchenne smile.
- Fearful Smile
- Description: Seen in tense or uncomfortable situations, this smile is a mask for fear or anxiety. It often appears forced with tight lips and little involvement of the eyes.
- Miserable Smile
- Description: This smile is used to hide sadness or disappointment. It may occur during moments of failure or loss and lacks the warmth of a genuine smile.
- Contemptuous Smile
- Description: Characterized by a lopsided mouth, this smile conveys disdain, scorn, or superiority. It’s often used to express disapproval or a sense of superiority in arguments or tense situations.
- Embarrassed Smile
- Description: This smile is a reaction to awkwardness or mistakes and is accompanied by downward gazes. It helps to ease tension but signals discomfort or social unease.