it looks expensive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it looks expensive" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing an opinion about the appearance or perceived value of an item, suggesting that it seems costly or high-quality. Example: "That dress is stunning; it looks expensive, and I love the fabric."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

It looks expensive".

The Guardian - Money

"It looks expensive," theorized a friend.

The New York Times

"It looks expensive, but it really isn't.

The New York Times

But the problem with this is that it looks expensive in the short term.

The Economist

"A high-quality product is somewhat distant from the customers; it looks expensive.

The Guardian

The room itself could be called handsome, in the sense that it looks expensive without being particularly attractive.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

The material in the bag smelled of mothballs, but it looked expensive — thick silk brocade, off-white, embroidered with cream flowers.

The New Yorker

Maya notes that the problem with burlap is that it's hard to make it look expensive.

Huffington Post

It simply looks expensive in the way a fine silk suit whispers luxury.

The New York Times

"But everything's not expensive; it just looks expensive," Greene said, pointing out a pair of $100 pumps.

The New York Times - Sports

It tastes and looks expensive, with really nice spices.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "it looks expensive" to convey a first impression based on appearance, suggesting high quality or cost, even if the actual price is unknown. This phrase is suitable for describing items, experiences, or even abstract concepts.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on appearance when assessing true value. While something might look expensive, its actual worth may be lower due to factors like materials, craftsmanship, or brand prestige.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it looks expensive" functions as a descriptive statement, expressing a subjective assessment of something's appearance. The adjective "expensive" modifies the verb "looks", indicating how something appears. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "it looks expensive" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe something that appears high-quality or costly. As Ludwig AI confirms, its frequent occurrence in news and media demonstrates its widespread use. When writing, use this phrase to convey an immediate impression based on appearance. However, avoid confusing appearance with actual value. Consider alternatives like "it appears costly" or "it seems pricey" to adjust the tone. Remember, while something may look expensive, its true worth depends on various factors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it appears costly

Replaces "looks" with "appears" and "expensive" with "costly", offering a slightly more formal tone.

it seems pricey

Substitutes "looks" with "seems" and "expensive" with "pricey", making the phrase more casual.

it gives an impression of luxury

Focuses on the impression conveyed, using "luxury" instead of directly indicating cost.

it has a high-end appearance

Emphasizes the visual aspect and the quality suggested by the appearance.

it exudes affluence

Conveys a sense of wealth or abundance that the item projects.

it has a luxurious feel

Shifts the focus from appearance to the tactile sense of luxury.

it projects an image of wealth

Highlights the image or impression the item creates regarding wealth.

it smacks of high quality

Uses a more idiomatic expression to suggest obvious quality.

it has a rich look

Simplifies the expression, focusing on the visual aspect of richness.

it suggests considerable value

Highlights the perceived worth or value associated with the item.

FAQs

What does "it looks expensive" mean?

The phrase "it looks expensive" means that something has an appearance of high quality, luxury, or high cost, even if its actual price is unknown.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "it looks expensive"?

Use "it looks expensive" when you want to describe something that gives the impression of being costly or luxurious based on its appearance. It's suitable for items, places, or experiences.

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

You can use alternatives like "it appears costly", "it seems pricey", or "it gives an impression of luxury" depending on the context.

Is "it looks expensive" grammatically correct?

Yes, "it looks expensive" is grammatically correct. The subject "it" is followed by the verb "looks" and the adjective "expensive" which describes the subject.