A very brief flash of true emotion that crosses the face in a fraction of a second before composure returns.
A negotiator hears a low offer and a flicker of contempt passes across the lips before a calm mask resumes. The whole episode is over almost before it begins, which is exactly why it carries weight.
Watch for fleeting changes that contradict the words being spoken. The brevity itself suggests the feeling was suppressed, so the emotion that leaks out in that instant is often the one the person meant to hide.
Microexpressions are easy to misread and require careful attention. Never rest a judgement on one alone, since a single flash seen out of the corner of the eye is as likely to be imagined as observed.
A true smile that engages both the mouth and the muscles around the eyes, creating crinkles at the outer corners.
ExploreA polite smile produced mainly by the mouth, often held to meet social expectation rather than to express joy.
ExploreA rapid raising and lowering of both eyebrows used to signal recognition, interest or greeting.
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