looking dismal

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looking dismal" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation, appearance, or outlook that is bleak or gloomy. Example: "The weather has been looking dismal all week, with constant rain and gray skies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Only two months earlier, the U.S. economy had nearly collapsed, and although the Christmas shopping season was looking dismal, there was still some dim hope that the nation might be able to shop its way out of disaster, as we were advised to do after 9/11.

The New Yorker

Story Creation presents me with 12 sequential sections of the story - and already my heart sinks, because we start with The Lovers Together, move through Hero's Bemoaning of Fate and All Looking Dismal - Hero Near Death amongst others, and end with Antagonist's and Hero's Exile or Going Into Sunset.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

THE figures still look dismal.

The Economist

Even the lettering looks dismal.

The New York Times - Books

"Now it all looks dismal".

The New Yorker

The online photos looked dismal.

The New York Times

Long-term prospects also look dismal.

The Economist

I agreed that the food looked dismal.

The New Yorker

The sharply angled concrete blocks look dismal under cloudy skies.

The Economist

Under the "print" umbrella, ad revenue looks dismal.

The Guardian

But, beyond this, the future for Renzi looks dismal.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looking dismal" to describe situations, appearances, or outlooks that are clearly negative or unfavorable. It suggests a lack of hope or positive qualities.

Common error

Avoid using "looking dismal" in highly formal or professional writing where a more nuanced or objective description might be preferred. Consider alternatives that convey negativity without being overly subjective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking dismal" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically used to modify a noun or pronoun by indicating its negative or unfavorable appearance or condition. As noted by Ludwig AI, this phrase is usable in written English to depict bleakness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "looking dismal" is a grammatically correct and usable expression that describes something appearing bleak, gloomy, or unfavorable. Ludwig AI confirms its appropriateness in written English. It's most commonly found in news and media contexts. While versatile, consider more nuanced alternatives in formal writing. Related phrases include "appearing bleak" and "seeming grim".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appearing bleak

Focuses on the lack of promise or hope in the appearance.

seeming grim

Emphasizes a harsh or uninviting appearance.

appearing unfavorable

Highlights the disadvantageous aspect of the appearance.

looking grim

Emphasizes a harsh or uninviting appearance.

appearing discouraging

Focuses on the depressing or disheartening aspect of the appearance.

seeming depressing

Focuses on the depressing or disheartening aspect of the appearance.

looking unpromising

Emphasizes the lack of a positive outlook.

appearing disheartening

Highlights the depressing or disheartening nature of the appearance.

seeming unfavorable

Highlights the disadvantageous aspect of the appearance.

looking unfavorable

Highlights the disadvantageous aspect of the appearance.

FAQs

What does "looking dismal" mean?

The phrase "looking dismal" means appearing bleak, gloomy, or unfavorable. It describes something that gives a negative or discouraging impression.

What are some synonyms for "looking dismal"?

Synonyms for "looking dismal" include "appearing bleak", "seeming grim", and "appearing unfavorable".

Is it appropriate to use "looking dismal" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "looking dismal" might be too informal for highly formal contexts. Consider using more objective or nuanced language to convey the same meaning.

How can I use "looking dismal" in a sentence?

You can use "looking dismal" to describe various subjects: "The weather is looking dismal today", or "The project's prospects are looking dismal".