look different

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "look different" is correct and can be used in written English.
For example, "The new version of the website looks different than before."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

49 human-written examples

Other elections look different.

The New York Times

They look different.

The New York Times

Things look different today.

The New York Times

"Will it look different?

The New York Times - Sports

"Perhaps I look different.

Independent

But they look different.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

What looks different today?

The New Yorker

She even looked different.

The New Yorker

It looks different today.

The New York Times

She looked different.

The New York Times

That, too, looked different.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "look different" to describe a change in appearance over time, or to contrast the appearance of two or more things.

Common error

Avoid using "look different" in highly formal or technical writing where more precise language may be required, such as "appear dissimilar" or "exhibit a new form".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look different" functions primarily as a descriptive expression, indicating a contrast or alteration in visual appearance. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely accepted. Many examples illustrate its use in noting changes in appearance or distinguishing between items.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Academia

18%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

6%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "look different" is a versatile and commonly used expression to describe a change or distinction in appearance. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide acceptance. While it is suitable for most contexts, including news and general conversation, more formal or technical settings might benefit from alternatives such as "appear dissimilar" or "exhibit variation". Its frequent use in news media and academic sources underscores its reliability and broad applicability. When writing, consider the specific context and desired level of formality to ensure the most effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

have a changed appearance

Directly states that the appearance has been modified.

undergo a visual transformation

Highlights a more complex, thorough alteration of appearance.

appear dissimilar

Emphasizes a lack of similarity in appearance.

seem altered

Focuses on the aspect of transformation or change.

present a different image

Highlights the presentation or perception of a new image.

exhibit a new form

Implies a noticeable shift in structure or shape.

show a different face

Suggests a change in the visible aspect or persona.

bear no resemblance

Indicates a complete absence of similarity.

strike a different pose

Highlights a change in posture or demeanor.

offer a contrasting view

Focuses on the difference in perspective or outlook.

FAQs

How can I use "look different" in a sentence?

You can use "look different" to describe a change in someone's appearance or to compare the appearances of two or more things. For instance, "The building "looks different" after the renovation" or "These two models "look different" in terms of size and shape".

What's a more formal way to say "look different"?

In more formal contexts, you could use phrases like "appear dissimilar", "exhibit variation", or "present a different image".

Is it correct to say "looks differently"?

While grammatically conceivable in some contexts, "looks differently" is far less common than ""look different"". "Look different" typically refers to a difference in appearance, while "looks differently" would describe the manner of looking, which is rarely the intended meaning.

What are some alternatives to "look different" that emphasize a transformation?

To emphasize transformation, consider using phrases like "seem altered", "have a changed appearance", or "undergo a visual transformation".