look glossy

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "look glossy" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that has a shiny or lustrous appearance, often referring to surfaces or finishes. Example: "The magazine cover is designed to look glossy, attracting readers with its vibrant colors and shine."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Another says: "It really does make them look glossy".

The Guardian

The eggs will now begin to feel firmer and look glossy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Any fish you buy should look glossy, bright-eyed and have pleasingly red gills.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Heating the sugar is what makes the meringue look glossy when cooked.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They are ready when the tops start to crack and look glossy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The historical society rejected the idea of trying to spray the dust with a fixative "because it would change the appearance, making it look glossy or wet," Ms. Weinstein said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

40 human-written examples

Ask for the greatest products that will keep your hair smelling delicious, and so it'll look shiny, glossy, and smooth!

WikiHow

You may want to add a lip gloss or Vaseline on your lips to make them look glossier.

WikiHow

To keep the bottom and sides looking glossy, Smith layered on generous amounts of Oribe Superfine Strong Hair Spray.

The New York Times

Coat every grain in the grease, so it looks glossy and nothing sticks.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

That Sugar Film looks glossy and effervescent, and comes lathered with flashy, special-effects eye candy.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical appearances, use "look glossy" to convey a healthy, well-maintained, or attractive quality. This is especially effective when describing hair, skin, or materials.

Common error

Avoid using "look glossy" in highly formal or academic writing. It may sound too informal or subjective. Instead, opt for more precise and objective terms like "reflect light well" or "possess a high-sheen finish".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look glossy" primarily functions as a descriptive phrase, where "look" acts as a linking verb connecting the subject to the adjective "glossy". It describes the appearance of something, indicating that it has a shiny and smooth surface. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Wiki

32%

Lifestyle

14%

Less common in

Science

10%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "look glossy" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe something with a shiny and smooth appearance. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is accurate and usable in written English. It finds frequent use in News & Media, Wiki, and Lifestyle contexts, suggesting a neutral to informal register. When writing, remember that while "look glossy" is widely understood, it may be wise to use more precise language in formal or academic writing to achieve greater clarity and objectivity. Consider related phrases such as "appear lustrous" or "seem polished" for nuanced expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appear lustrous

Replaces "glossy" with "lustrous", emphasizing a soft, reflected light.

seem polished

Focuses on the smoothness and refined quality of the surface.

have a sheen

Highlights a subtle shine or gloss.

shine brightly

Emphasizes the intensity of the shine.

gleam vividly

Suggests a lively and radiant shine.

reflect light well

Focuses on the ability to bounce light effectively.

exude a gloss

Implies an emanation of glossiness.

take on a shine

Describes the process of becoming shiny.

have a polished appearance

Highlights the overall impression of being refined and shiny.

present a sleek surface

Emphasizes the smoothness and shininess of the surface.

FAQs

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

You can use "look glossy" to describe something that has a shiny or lustrous appearance. For example, "The freshly waxed floor "looked glossy" in the sunlight".

What is a synonym for "look glossy"?

Alternatives to "look glossy" include "appear lustrous", "shine brightly", or "seem polished". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "look glossy" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "look glossy" might be perceived as informal in certain contexts. Consider using more formal alternatives such as "exhibit a high sheen" or "present a polished appearance" in formal settings.

How does "look glossy" differ from "look shiny"?

"Look glossy" implies a smooth, reflective surface, whereas "look shiny" can refer to any type of brightness. Something that "looks glossy" generally also "looks shiny", but the reverse isn't always true.