From a psychological point of view, facial expressions play an important role in communication. Even the meaning of the kindest words in terms of content changes completely if accompanied by a bloodthirsty facial expression or a frown. Often a compliment turns into a mockery if it is accompanied by a sly smile. What is malice? Why can this particular kind of smile ruin relationships between people?
A sly smile, like a kind of silent aggression
If a person is under pressure and cannot directly express his protest, then the psyche comes to the rescue. Facial expression often means more than words or actions. At the same time, not everyone can control facial expressions - we frown or smile unconsciously, unless, of course, we are talking about professional actors. Often a sly smile is the only way to express one's attitude to other people's statements if there is no opportunity or desire to openly show one's dissatisfaction or react with more aggressive facial expressions.
Cunning can be described as malicious irony or cunningsarcasm. The manifestation of this character trait is often perceived by interlocutors as a good sense of humor, but only as long as the malicious smirk is not addressed to them personally. Few people are ready to accept such non-verbal signals with calm indifference.
Protection or disguise
Even if a person cannot afford aggression, he can pick up the most safe mimic mask. This is not always an expression of indifference or ostentatious humility. If your interlocutor often has a sly smile on his face, this may mean that he is anxious or uncomfortable, but he cannot let others guess his inner feelings.
Skepticism, indifference and even malice are used as masks to hide inner vulnerability and impressionability. It is important to remember that this may be perceived by others as your distrust, so if you want to build a good relationship with someone, try to get rid of disapproving and stinging facial expressions.
