is a sight to see

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is a sight to see" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is visually impressive or worth observing. Example: "The sunset over the mountains is a sight to see, with its vibrant colors painting the sky."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

It is a sight to see.

The Guardian

But the Kindle's E-Ink is a sight to see.

The New York Times - Magazine

This is a sight to see, almost certainly the most convivial landscape in college athletics.

The New York Times - Travel

The lopsided result is a sight to see, with the kitchen sink on the outside, swiveling walls and a roof that faces the wrong way, among other flaws.

The New York Times

But still it is a sight to see, rows and rows of regimented daffodils, usually single-cut blooms in glass vases each picked for it's 'perfect' bloom that really challenge your idea of what a daffodil is.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

My father, a lovely man but one not inclined to let himself go or express too much emotion, unless Celtic won a European Cup, is a sight to see strutting his stuff on a dance floor.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

It would be a sight to see.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It was a sight to see: moving traffic.

The New York Times

"I was a sight to see," Cobb said.

The New York Times - Sports

Just as Willis enjoyed the sights, he, too, was a sight to see.

The New York Times - Sports

Their relationship was notoriously stormy but resilient and they were a sight to see.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is a sight to see", ensure the context clearly establishes what makes the subject visually remarkable. Be specific about the qualities that make it worth seeing.

Common error

Avoid using "is a sight to see" too frequently in your writing. Overusing it can make your descriptions sound repetitive. Instead, vary your language by using alternatives such as "is a spectacle to behold" or "is a remarkable view" to keep your writing engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is a sight to see" functions as a subject complement, describing a noun or pronoun by expressing its visual appeal or impressiveness. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's a standard expression used to emphasize the visual quality of something.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is a sight to see" serves as a concise and effective way to highlight the visual impressiveness or uniqueness of something. Ludwig confirms that it is grammatically correct and widely used. Appearing most frequently in news and media contexts, the expression functions as a subject complement, encouraging appreciation of visual qualities. While its formality is neutral, it should be used judiciously to avoid repetition, with alternatives like "is a spectacle to behold" offering variety and nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is a spectacle to behold

Emphasizes the grandeur and impressiveness of the sight.

is a remarkable view

Focuses on the visual aspect and its noteworthy quality.

is an impressive display

Highlights the visual presentation and its impact.

is a noteworthy scene

Underscores the importance and memorability of the visual.

is a beautiful vision

Stresses the aesthetic and pleasing nature of the sight.

is quite something to witness

Indicates the sight is extraordinary and worth experiencing.

is a wonder to observe

Conveys a sense of awe and admiration for the sight.

is an experience to remember

Focuses on the lasting impression the sight leaves.

is visually stunning

Directly describes the sight as extremely beautiful.

is an extraordinary view

Highlights that is a view beyond the ordinary.

FAQs

How can I use "is a sight to see" in a sentence?

Use "is a sight to see" to describe something that is visually impressive or remarkable. For example, "The fireworks display over the harbor is a sight to see."

What are some alternatives to "is a sight to see"?

You can use alternatives like "is a spectacle to behold", "is a remarkable view", or "is an impressive display" depending on the context.

Is "is a sight to see" formal or informal?

"Is a sight to see" is generally considered to be neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the surrounding language and the overall purpose of the communication.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "is a sight to see"?

It is appropriate to use the phrase "is a sight to see" when you want to emphasize that something is visually striking, memorable, or otherwise worth observing. It implies that the subject has unique or impressive visual qualities.