better looking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "better looking" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to compare two things, or to describe something as being more aesthetically pleasing than another. For example, "I thought the red dress was better looking than the yellow one."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Better looking.

The New York Times

Though he's better looking".

The New York Times - Magazine

"I bet you were better looking".

The New Yorker

"Think of me but better looking.

The New Yorker

"But the others are better looking.

The New York Times

And they are better looking too.

The Guardian - Tech

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

And Grant really had got better-looking.

The New Yorker

"We're just like you," these photographs say, "only better-looking.

The New Yorker

It was simply that Rita was better-looking.

The New Yorker

The one of me is better-looking.

Forbes

Become better-looking too … yes, that happens.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing the attractiveness of two subjects, be specific about what aspects make one "better looking" than the other to provide a clearer picture for your reader.

Common error

Avoid simply stating something is "better looking" without providing any objective reasons or comparisons. This can make your writing seem biased or lacking in substance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "better looking" functions primarily as a comparative adjective. It modifies a noun by indicating that it possesses a greater degree of visual appeal compared to another entity. Ludwig AI examples show its use in comparing physical features, products, and even abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "better looking" is a commonly used comparative adjective phrase employed to express subjective opinions about visual appeal. According to Ludwig AI analysis, it's grammatically correct and most frequently encountered in News & Media and Wiki contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to opt for more formal alternatives in academic or scientific writing. The phrase's primary function is to compare and contrast the aesthetic qualities of different subjects, as evidenced by the examples provided by Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

more attractive

Focuses specifically on physical attractiveness, implying a higher degree of appeal.

more appealing

Broader than just looks, encompasses overall pleasantness and desirability.

finer-looking

Emphasizes a more refined and delicate appearance.

prettier

Specifically refers to feminine attractiveness.

more handsome

Specifically refers to masculine attractiveness.

more aesthetically pleasing

Highlights the visual aspects and their appeal to the senses.

easier on the eyes

Informal way of saying something is pleasant to look at.

more beautiful

Implies a deeper, more profound level of attractiveness.

more visually appealing

Highlights the visual attractiveness.

superior in appearance

Focuses on the advantage in outward presentation.

FAQs

How can I use "better looking" in a sentence?

You can use "better looking" to compare the appearance of two or more things. For example, "This new model is "better looking" than the previous one."

What's a less common synonym for "better looking"?

While common alternatives include "more attractive" or "more appealing", a less common synonym is "finer-looking" which suggests a more refined appearance.

What is the difference between "good looking" and "better looking"?

"Good looking" is a general term for someone attractive, while "better looking" implies a comparison. You'd say someone is good looking in general, but if comparing two people, one might be "better looking" than the other.

Is it appropriate to use "better looking" in formal writing?

While "better looking" is widely understood, it leans towards the informal side. In formal contexts, consider using more precise and objective terms like "more visually appealing" or "more aesthetically pleasing".