But while the Browns' defense was holding opponents to fewer than two touchdowns a game, the offense lacked verve.

The food is Cajun, but much of it lacked verve.

Now, without the flourish of an exclamation mark, that sign lacks verve or at least zeitgeisty voguishness.

The face across the table was serious, totally lacking verve.

The Caesar was creamy rather than classic, and the house raspberry vinaigrette lacked verve.

The accompaniment of horseradish-laced sour cream also lacked verve.

She gave him the first direct smile since their indiscreet behaviour had been discovered, but it lacked her usual sparkle and verve.

Nevertheless, the cast as a whole in this performance lacked verve and, occasionally, precision.

But as a sales tool, "compliance" lacked inspirational verve.

The cheese could be creamier and the olives lack verve, but even these simple ingredients thrive among the more feisty ones around them.