kind of look

USAGE SUMMARY

"kind of look" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to emphasize how something is perceived, or to indicate that something is not entirely certain. For example, "I gave her a kind of look that said 'I understand'".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

51 human-written examples

I kind of look like a junkie".

The New York Times - Magazine

"It wasn't a Michelangelo kind of look".

The New York Times

"I kind of look at it now as something special.

The New Yorker

I kind of look at him as a big example.

The New York Times

"We had that kind of look," she said.

The New York Times

That's the kind of look the young lads like".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

It had gold rims with a boxey-kind of-look.

Vice

"They kind of look the same".

The New Yorker

What kind of look do you go for?

The Guardian - Tech

"I kind of look at that as the past.

The New York Times

They kind of look like Beatle boots.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "kind of look" to soften a description, making it less direct or assertive. This is particularly useful when offering subjective observations or opinions, as in, "That building has a "kind of look" that reminds me of the 1920s."

Common error

Avoid using "kind of look" excessively in your writing, as it can make your descriptions vague and repetitive. Vary your language by using more precise adjectives or descriptive phrases to convey the intended image or impression.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "kind of look" functions primarily as a qualifier or descriptor, softening or approximating the description of someone or something's appearance. As shown by Ludwig, it expresses a subjective impression rather than a precise characteristic.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Wiki

18%

Formal & Business

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

6%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "kind of look" is a common phrase used to describe an approximate or subjective appearance. According to Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. While versatile, it is generally more appropriate for informal contexts, as very formal writing benefits from more precise language. The phrase appears frequently in news and media sources and less often in academic or scientific publications. When seeking alternatives, consider phrases like "sort of appearance" or "vaguely resembles" to achieve similar effects. It is important to use it appropriately, avoiding overuse and ensuring clarity in descriptive writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sort of appearance

Replaces "look" with a more formal synonym and "kind of" with "sort of", maintaining the approximate nature.

vaguely resembles

Focuses on the resemblance aspect, suggesting an inexact similarity.

somewhat resembles

Similar to "vaguely resembles", but with a slightly different emphasis on the degree of similarity.

has a semblance of

Implies a superficial or slight similarity in appearance.

appears to be similar

Emphasizes the perceived similarity rather than a definite likeness.

bears a resemblance to

Highlights the similarity in appearance between two things.

approximate appearance

Focuses on the inexact nature of the appearance.

gives the impression of

Shifts the focus to the impression created by the appearance.

projects a certain image

Emphasizes the image or impression conveyed.

seems somewhat like

Indicates a partial or inexact similarity.

FAQs

How can I use "kind of look" in a sentence?

You can use "kind of look" to describe something's appearance in an inexact or approximate way. For example, "The room had a "kind of look" that suggested it hadn't been used in years."

What's the difference between "kind of look" and "sort of look"?

The phrases "kind of look" and "sort of look" are largely interchangeable and carry a similar meaning, both indicating an approximate or vague resemblance. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference or stylistic considerations.

What can I say instead of "kind of look"?

Alternatives to "kind of look" include phrases like "sort of appearance", "vaguely resembles", or "somewhat resembles", depending on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "kind of look" in formal writing?

While "kind of look" is grammatically correct, it's generally more suitable for informal or conversational contexts. In formal writing, consider using more precise and descriptive language to convey the intended meaning. For instance, instead of "The design had a "kind of look" that was outdated", you might say "The design appeared somewhat outdated".