Which facial expression is commonly associated with the emotion of fear?

The facial expression commonly associated with the emotion of fear is characterized by raised eyebrows and wide-open eyes. This particular expression serves a critical function in conveying emotion; when a person feels fear, their eyes widen to increase visual input, allowing them to better assess the threat in their environment. Similarly, raised eyebrows create an expression of surprise or fear, which is instinctive and occurs even in response to sudden stimuli.

This response is not only instinctual but also plays an important role in nonverbal communication, signaling to others the presence of danger or discomfort. The combination of these features makes it immediately recognizable and effectively communicates a state of fear to observers.