# blankly

/ˈbɫæŋkɫi/ (US) · /blˈæŋkli/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/blankly
Updated: 2026-10-16

## Definition

with an empty face that shows no feeling or understanding. You use it when someone looks or stares without any reaction.

For teachers: in a manner showing no expression, interest, or comprehension, as in a vacant stare. Typically collocates with verbs of looking or responding, such as 'stare', 'gaze', or 'look'.

## Examples

- She stares blankly at the screen.
- When the teacher asks a difficult question, the students stare blankly at their desks.
- He listens blankly as the news unfolds, his face giving no sign of whether he understands or cares.

## Synonyms

vacantly, expressionlessly

## Usage notes

- Typically follows the verb it modifies, especially verbs of looking or speaking.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.