look as though

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "look as though" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or appearance that seems to be true based on observation or evidence. Example: "She looked as though she had just come from a long journey, with her hair tousled and her clothes wrinkled."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

BLOOM! look as though they're going places.

Independent

4. Always look as though you're hurrying somewhere.

The New York Times - Magazine

It did not look as though much money had been funnelled in Ljubica's direction.

The New Yorker

It does not look as though anyone is seriously injured".

Independent

She walked alone and didn't look as though….

The New Yorker

He didn't look as though he was buying it.

The Guardian - Books

I like things that look as though they were inherited.

The New York Times - Arts

The walls look as though they might be covered in water drops or sequins.

The New Yorker

The rest in the field look as though they are destined for the circus.

The New Yorker

Along Corlear Avenue, a row of bungalows look as though they could be on a waterfront.

The New York Times

"Maybe it's quite nice for her to look as though her innocence is gone," Charlotte said.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "look as though" to describe something's perceived state, especially when it might not be entirely accurate or definitive. It's ideal for conveying impressions based on visual cues.

Common error

Don't use "look as though" when describing a situation that is definitively known. Stick to direct statements of fact rather than speculative appearances in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look as though" functions as a linking phrase that connects a subject with an impression or appearance. It indicates that something appears to be a certain way, based on observation but without certainty. Ludwig provides ample examples showcasing its versatility.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

34%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "look as though" is a versatile and commonly used linking phrase that describes a perceived state or impression, as validated by Ludwig. It's considered grammatically correct and appears frequently in News & Media and Wiki sources. Ludwig AI indicates that it's best used to describe something's apparent state based on visual cues, especially when certainty is lacking. Remember to avoid it when describing definitively known facts and consider alternatives like "appear to be" for greater precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appear to be

Focuses on the apparent state, removing the 'as though' comparison.

seem to be

Similar to 'appear to be', but emphasizes a perceived reality.

give the impression of

Highlights the effect on the observer rather than a direct statement.

look like

A more direct and simpler way to indicate resemblance.

have the appearance of

Formal and emphasizes visual characteristics.

present as if

Emphasizes the way something is shown or presented.

strike one as

Highlights a subjective assessment or feeling.

suggest the idea of

Indirectly points to a possible interpretation or concept.

create the illusion of

Focuses on a deceptive or misleading appearance.

mimic the semblance of

Formal and emphasizes imitation of an appearance.

FAQs

How can I use "look as though" in a sentence?

Use "look as though" to describe a situation that appears to be true based on visual cues or initial impressions. For example, "The sky "looks as though" it might rain" suggests an impending possibility based on the sky's appearance.

What's the difference between "look as though" and "seems like"?

"Look as though" typically refers to a visual impression, while "seems like" can refer to a more general impression or feeling. "The house "looks as though" no one lives there" focuses on the visual state, whereas "It seems like a good idea" refers to a broader evaluation.

What can I say instead of "look as though"?

You can use alternatives like "appear to be", "seem to be", or "give the impression of" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "look as though it seems"?

Yes, using both "look as though" and "seems" together can be redundant because they both convey a similar meaning of appearance or impression. Choose one or the other for clarity; for example, "It "looks as though" it will rain" or "It "seems" likely to rain".