for visual effect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for visual effect" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that is done to enhance the appearance or aesthetic quality of an object, scene, or presentation. Example: "The artist used bright colors and bold lines for visual effect, making the painting stand out."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

Like many things designed without thought for visual effect, these structures, called "pagodas", are visually effective.

The Guardian

Maybe even add a grand piano for visual effect!

The Guardian - Books

MySpace has a pliant grammar, and its users manipulate lowercase and capital letters for visual effect.

The New Yorker

Exhibits range from installations that use actual shadows for visual effect to video art and elaborate conceptual pieces concerned with issues of surveillance, memory, perception and truth.

The New York Times

The cantilevered balances the performers wrangle one another into are contrived for visual effect, but few of the visual effects are worth the contrivance.

The New York Times - Arts

For visual effect, and civic education or outreach purposes, the party could enlist 16- and 17-year-olds as proxies to follow, as marching orders, the rankings on absent voters' ballots.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

Not in fact a major update to the original Atrix, but it's nice, despite some uncalled-for visual effects.

TechCrunch

Among live-action movies, "Apes" led the pack with five nominations, including for visual effects in a visual effects-driven feature motion picture.

Los Angeles Times

Find the category for visual effects.

The New Yorker

Can a film with no visual arts supervisor win an Oscar for visual effects?

The New York Times

On Sunday, it won the Bafta for visual effects.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing design choices, use "for visual effect" to clearly communicate that the element's primary purpose is aesthetic rather than functional.

Common error

Avoid using "for visual effect" in technical documentation where precision and clarity are paramount. Instead, describe the specific functionality or purpose of the element.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for visual effect" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically modifies a verb or noun, indicating the purpose or reason behind an action or design. It clarifies that something is done to enhance visual appearance.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "for visual effect" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to describe actions or design choices primarily intended to enhance visual appearance. Ludwig confirms that it is appropriate across various writing styles, as evidenced by numerous examples from news, encyclopedias, and scientific sources. Alternatives like "for aesthetic effect" or "to enhance visual appeal" can be used depending on the specific context. A key writing tip is to use it judiciously in technical documentation, opting for more precise language when describing functionality. Overall, "for visual effect" is a reliable way to communicate the aesthetic intention behind a particular element.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for aesthetic effect

Replaces "visual" with "aesthetic", focusing on beauty and artistic appearance.

for visual impact

Emphasizes the striking or memorable quality of the visual element.

for pictorial effect

Highlights the use of images or illustrations to create a desired outcome.

for decorative purposes

Focuses on the ornamental or embellishing aspect of the visual design.

to enhance visual appeal

Replaces "effect" with "appeal", highlighting the attractiveness of something.

to improve appearance

Focuses on the overall look and presentation.

for show

Suggests the visual aspect is purely for display without functional purpose.

for stylistic reasons

Highlights that the visual aspect is part of a deliberate style or design choice.

for presentation

Focuses on how something is displayed or presented.

to create a visual impression

Emphasizes creating a particular feeling or image through visuals.

FAQs

How can I use "for visual effect" in a sentence?

You can use "for visual effect" to describe elements added to enhance appearance rather than functionality, such as "The shimmering lights were added "for visual effect"".

What are some alternatives to "for visual effect"?

Some alternatives include "for aesthetic effect", "for visual impact", or "to enhance visual appeal", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "for visual effect" in formal writing?

Yes, "for visual effect" is generally appropriate, but in highly formal or technical contexts, more precise language might be preferred to describe the specific aesthetic goal.

What is the difference between "for visual effect" and "for practical purposes"?

"For visual effect" indicates something is done to improve appearance, while "for practical purposes" indicates something is done to serve a functional need. They represent opposite intentions.