aesthetically unappealing

USAGE SUMMARY

"aesthetically unappealing" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe something that visually lacks attractiveness or beauty. For example, "The old furniture in the lobby was aesthetically unappealing and could use an update."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The risk for older artists is that new material can never recapture their glory years – and choosing such an odd and aesthetically unappealing final image for The Next Day's sleeve risks the accusation that the sleeve is as bland as the new material might be.

The Guardian - Music

Unwanted submental fat (SMF) is considered aesthetically unappealing.

British Journal of Dermatology

Loss of definition in the submental area and an obtuse cervicomental angle may result from unwanted submental fat (SMF), which is considered aesthetically unappealing.

British Journal of Dermatology

They can be jackhammer noisy and as aesthetically unappealing as Beavis in a beanie hat.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

A city full of low, boxy buildings may be aesthetically unappealing to many residents and tourists (especially when high real-estate costs have crowded out economic diversity, leaving the building full of lawyers and other suits).

The Economist

MIAMI GARDENS, Fla .— After all the penalties, interceptions and missed opportunities in the aesthetically unappealing Bowl Championship Series title game between Oklahoma and Florida on Thursday night, things started to look familiar.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Fellow swimmers objected, partly because they found the soldiers unappealing aesthetically - they had been careless enough to lose various limbs - but also because they 'hadn't paid'.

The Guardian - Opinion

If signage is inadequately sized in comparison to the architecture (or competing signs), hidden by the landscaping, difficult to read, unappealing aesthetically or otherwise a misrepresentation of the property's purpose, you can go a long way in increasing the value of your commercial property by adding new signage or updating the old.

WikiHow

Avocado on rye toast has become a hipster obsession mainly because it is so much more aesthetically pleasing than, say, poached eggs on toast (delicious to eat, but looks unappealing on camera).

The Guardian

Very unappealing.

The New York Times

unappealing to the critters?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "aesthetically unappealing" when you want to sound more formal than simply saying something is "ugly" or "unattractive".

Common error

Avoid using "aesthetically unappealing" in very casual conversations; it can sound pretentious. Opt for simpler terms like "ugly" or "unattractive" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "aesthetically unappealing" functions as an adjective phrase, modifying nouns to describe something lacking in visual appeal or beauty. As Ludwig confirms, it's grammatically correct and usable in written English. Examples show it describing album covers, buildings, and even sports games.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "aesthetically unappealing" is a grammatically sound adjective phrase used to describe something that lacks visual appeal. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase. While not as common as simpler terms like "ugly", it provides a more formal and specific way to express aesthetic disapproval. It appears most frequently in news, media, and scientific contexts, with a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the formality of your writing and consider specifying which aspects are unappealing for clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

visually unattractive

Focuses directly on the lack of visual appeal.

unaesthetic

A more direct synonym, simply negating the aesthetic quality.

unpleasing to the eye

Emphasizes the subjective experience of viewing something unattractive.

visually displeasing

Highlights the negative impact on visual satisfaction.

ugly

A common and straightforward term for lacking beauty.

unattractive in appearance

Expands on the general unattractiveness with specific focus on appearance.

hideous

Implies a stronger degree of repulsiveness.

not visually appealing

A more descriptive way of saying something lacks visual appeal.

lacking visual charm

Highlights the absence of charm in the visual aspect.

visually jarring

Emphasizes a disturbing or unpleasant visual experience.

FAQs

How can I use "aesthetically unappealing" in a sentence?

You can use "aesthetically unappealing" to describe something that lacks visual appeal. For example, "The building's design was "aesthetically unappealing" due to its mismatched colors and awkward proportions."

What's a less formal way to say "aesthetically unappealing"?

Alternatives include "ugly", "unattractive", or "not visually appealing". The choice depends on the specific context and the level of formality desired.

Is "aesthetically unappealing" subjective?

Yes, aesthetic appeal is often subjective. What one person finds "aesthetically unappealing", another might find interesting or even beautiful.

What is the difference between "aesthetically unappealing" and "functionally unsound"?

"Aesthetically unappealing" refers to visual unattractiveness, while "functionally unsound" means something does not work well or is not practical. A design can be "aesthetically unappealing" but functionally sound, or vice versa.