it looks absurd

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it looks absurd" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that something appears ridiculous or unreasonable in a given context. Example: "After reviewing the proposal, I must say it looks absurd to suggest such high costs for minimal benefits."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Now it looks absurd.

The Economist

It looks absurd, but it isn't precisely melodramatic, and Snowden seems as if he both knows what he is doing and appreciates the absurdity of it all.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

MR: No. SJ: Our cameraman showed up with his steadicam rig on in just his Speedo on the beach one day and it looked absurd.

Independent

I'd forgotten about it, and for some reason felt ashamed, as if I looked absurd.

The New Yorker

The World Financial Center is recognizable for what it is, but also looks absurd as a bastion of economic might.

The New York Times

With the two major nuclear weapons states agreeing to reduce their arsenals Iran's refusal to come clean on its nuclear program on NPT grounds looks absurd.

The Guardian - Opinion

The 2006 level looks absurd.

The Economist

The very question now looks absurd.

The Economist

A fashion is hot and then looks absurd decades later.

The New York Times

After the Rhinos thrashed St Helens, Schofield's accusation looks absurd.

The Guardian - Sport

Humour explodes around Eric. Caged in his own logic, he looks absurd.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it looks absurd" to express a subjective assessment that something appears ridiculous or unreasonable in a given context. Ensure that the subject clearly lacks logic or proportionality.

Common error

Avoid using "it looks absurd" in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more nuanced and professional alternatives like "it appears unreasonable" or "it seems illogical" to maintain a serious tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it looks absurd" functions as an evaluative expression, offering a subjective assessment of something as ridiculous or unreasonable. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it looks absurd" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to convey that something appears ridiculous or unreasonable. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is most frequently found in News & Media. While generally acceptable, consider the context and audience when using this phrase, opting for more formal alternatives like "it appears illogical" in professional or academic settings. Remember to focus on expressing a clear, subjective judgment about the lack of logic or proportionality in the subject you are describing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it appears ridiculous

Focuses on the visual aspect of being absurd or laughable; slight shift in formality.

it seems preposterous

Emphasizes the outlandish or unbelievable nature of something; stronger emotional tone.

it seems nonsensical

Highlights the lack of logical sense or coherence; more intellectual.

it comes across as ludicrous

Focuses on how something is perceived by others; emphasizes the comical aspect.

it reads as unreasonable

Emphasizes the lack of justification or rationale; more suitable for formal contexts.

it's patently ridiculous

Highlights the obviousness of the ridiculousness; adds a sense of impatience.

it strikes me as farcical

Compares the situation to a farce, implying chaos and absurdity; more theatrical.

it presents itself as foolish

Focuses on the inherent lack of wisdom or intelligence; more judgmental.

it gives the impression of being ludicrous

More formal and nuanced way of expressing absurdity; emphasizes the subjective impression.

it looks like a joke

Simpler, more direct way of expressing that something is absurd; less formal.

FAQs

What does "it looks absurd" mean?

The phrase "it looks absurd" means that something appears ridiculous, unreasonable, or illogical upon observation. It conveys a subjective judgment that something is not in line with reason or expectations.

What can I say instead of "it looks absurd"?

You can use alternatives like "it appears ridiculous", "it seems preposterous", or "it seems nonsensical" depending on the context.

Is "it looks absurd" too informal for professional writing?

While "it looks absurd" is generally acceptable, it might be perceived as slightly informal for certain professional contexts. Consider using alternatives like "it seems unreasonable" or "it appears illogical" to maintain a more formal tone.

How can I use "it looks absurd" in a sentence?

You can use "it looks absurd" to describe anything that seems ridiculous or illogical. For example: "After reviewing the proposal, I must say "it looks absurd" to suggest such high costs for minimal benefits."