look strange

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "look strange" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that appears unusual or out of the ordinary. Example: "The painting seemed to look strange under the dim lighting, making it hard to appreciate the details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That would look strange.

The Guardian - Opinion

They look strange, and tragic.

The New York Times

"If they look strange, you stay away".

The New York Times

"Skirts are going to look strange".

The New York Times

This new world will look strange to us.

The New Yorker

They feel familiar, even if they look strange.

The Economist

Suzuki may look strange in the uniform, but chances are he will fit right in.

The New York Times - Sports

This may look strange given the social network's emphasis on sharing information.

The Economist

Some of the nerve cells of SIDS victims' brainstems often look strange.

The Economist

"Like literature, art should make the familiar look strange, the ordinary look beautiful".

The New York Times

Although these changes may look strange, they are precisely correct for the situation.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "look strange" to describe something that deviates from the expected appearance or norm. Ensure the context clarifies what the expected appearance is for better understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "look strange" in contexts where it could be perceived as a personal attack or direct criticism of someone's appearance. Instead, focus on specific details that contribute to the unusual appearance without being offensive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look strange" functions as a copular verb phrase, where "look" is a linking verb connecting the subject to the adjective "strange." Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in describing something appearing unusual or peculiar.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

33%

Science

27%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "look strange" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe something that appears unusual or peculiar. Ludwig AI confirms this. It finds frequent use across diverse contexts, from news and media to wikis and scientific publications. While generally neutral in tone, it's important to use it carefully to avoid unintentional offense. Consider alternatives like "appear odd" or "seem unusual" for slight variations in meaning. When using the phrase, clarify what the expected norm is to prevent misinterpretations and ensure your message is clear.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appear odd

This alternative uses "odd" instead of "strange", suggesting a slight deviation from the norm.

seem unusual

Replaces "look strange" with "seem unusual", emphasizing the perception of something uncommon.

strike as peculiar

This phrase uses "strike as peculiar" to denote a noticeable and somewhat curious appearance.

give a funny impression

Uses "give a funny impression" to imply an amusing or odd visual impact.

appear bizarre

This substitute employs "appear bizarre" to convey a stronger sense of strangeness or outlandishness.

present an unusual appearance

This more formal alternative uses "present an unusual appearance" to indicate an uncommon visual presentation.

look out of place

Implies that something doesn't fit its surroundings or context, thus appearing strange.

appear abnormal

Suggests a deviation from the standard or typical, making something seem strange.

seem unnatural

Indicates something appears artificial or not in its normal state, hence looking strange.

look unnatural

Replaces "strange" with "unnatural" to describe something not in its typical state.

FAQs

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

You can use "look strange" to describe something that appears unusual or out of the ordinary. For example, "The painting seemed to "look strange" under the dim lighting, making it hard to appreciate the details."

What can I say instead of "look strange"?

You can use alternatives like "appear odd", "seem unusual", or "strike as peculiar" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "look strange" or "looks strange"?

"Look strange" is correct when referring to a plural subject or using a modal verb. "Looks strange" is correct when referring to a singular subject. For example, "They "look strange"" vs. "It "looks strange"".

What's the difference between "look strange" and "seem strange"?

While both phrases express something unusual, ""look strange"" refers more directly to visual appearance, whereas "seem strange" suggests a general impression or feeling of oddness. The choice depends on whether the strangeness is primarily visual.