certain look

USAGE SUMMARY

"certain look" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that there is a specific type of expression or gaze on someone's face. For example, "The teacher gave the children a certain look that warned them to stay quiet."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

It's a certain look.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It popularised a certain look".

The Guardian - Arts

Is there a certain look to the firm's designs?

The New York Times

"But SAG extras have a certain look — they're put together.

The New York Times

"It's a nice house, but it's a certain look.

The New York Times

It's a close up and a certain look she has.

The Guardian - Film

I might say no to a certain look a million times, but she keeps driving.

The New York Times - Magazine

We maybe exploited these girls because it brought a certain look to the photographs".

The New York Times

"When he shoots, he has that certain look in his eye," Lundqvist said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Is there a certain look that goes from prom season to prom season?" Ms. Shaw asked.

The New York Times

"You have to have a certain look to get on, and I don't fit in.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "certain look" to describe a recognizable or distinctive appearance, expression, or style that is characteristic of a person, object, or situation. It implies a specific quality that can be identified or associated with something.

Common error

Avoid using "certain look" as a generic filler. Instead, specify what makes the look distinct. For instance, instead of saying 'The house had a certain look', describe the architectural style, colors, or features that define its appearance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "certain look" functions as a noun phrase where 'certain' modifies the noun 'look', indicating a specific or recognizable appearance or expression. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Wiki

17%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "certain look" is a versatile term used to describe a recognizable or distinctive appearance or expression. As Ludwig AI points out, it's grammatically sound and widely used across various contexts. While it's prevalent in News & Media, Wiki, and Science, the phrase maintains a neutral register. When using "certain look", ensure that your descriptions are specific to avoid vagueness, instead, opt for alternatives like "distinctive appearance" or "particular expression" to enhance clarity. By adhering to these guidelines, you can effectively use "certain look" to add depth and detail to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

distinctive appearance

Emphasizes the unique visual quality or style.

particular expression

Focuses on the specific emotion or feeling conveyed.

specific style

Highlights a particular fashion or design.

recognizable aspect

Highlights an easily identifiable element of someone's appearance.

unmistakable air

Emphasizes a distinctive quality or manner.

signature trait

Focuses on a defining characteristic of someone's appearance.

definite feature

Highlights a notable characteristic or aspect.

unique characteristic

Emphasizes the individuality and distinctiveness of the appearance.

marked feature

Highlights a prominent or noticeable aspect of appearance.

special attribute

Focuses on a particular quality or characteristic.

FAQs

How can I use "certain look" in a sentence?

You can use "certain look" to describe a distinctive appearance or expression. For example, "She had a certain look in her eyes that suggested she knew more than she was saying" or "The restaurant aims for a certain look with its vintage decor".

What can I say instead of "certain look"?

You can use alternatives like "distinctive appearance", "particular expression", or "specific style" depending on the context.

Is it better to use "a certain look" or "certain look"?

Both forms are grammatically correct, but "a certain look" is more common when referring to a particular instance or example. "Certain look" without the article can be used in more general contexts.

What does it mean when someone has "a certain look"?

It typically means they have a distinct expression or appearance that conveys a particular emotion, intention, or characteristic. It implies that the look is recognizable and meaningful in some way.