👁️
Eyeshigh reliabilityobvious

Wide Eyes

Eyes opened wider than normal, with more white (sclera) visible.

SurpriseFearInterestEngagement

Visual Description

Increased scleral exposure, raised upper eyelids, eyebrows often raised simultaneously.

Duration: momentaryVisibility: obvious

How to Observe

  • Check duration - surprise is brief
  • Note accompanying expressions
  • Fear shows tension, surprise shows relaxation

Context Matters

  • Universal expression of surprise
  • Can be positive or negative surprise
  • Fear shows more lower sclera
  • Often involuntary and quick

Common Misinterpretations

  • Positive and negative surprise look similar
  • Can be exaggerated for effect
  • May indicate interest, not just surprise

Quick Info

Primary Signal
Surprise
Body Region
👁️Eyes
Reliability
high
Duration

momentary

Visibility

obvious

Related Cues

Opposite Signals

Associated Emotions