looking elegant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looking elegant" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it to describe someone or something that appears stylish and graceful. An example is: "She walked into the room, looking elegant in her evening gown." Alternative expressions include "appearing sophisticated" and "seeming graceful."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

TWO neat envelopes arrived in the mail one day in May, both a tasteful beige and looking elegant.

The New York Times - Travel

The Opera House is looking elegant (though the lighting in the auditorium is too dim in several places to make it easy to read a program).

The New York Times - Arts

People from all over India came to take blessings and good vibrations from her. Farid found Farida on the mountain, looking elegant.

The New Yorker

Dr. Westheimer was at a recent performance, looking elegant in a green jacket, black pants and slightly longer hair than her character's onstage.

The New York Times

On Tuesday, looking elegant in a white wide-brimmed hat and a piano-key scarf, Ms. Mansfield met her audience — er, tour group.

The New York Times

But when they do their ballroom ballets, they have some deeper meaning or some wider significance other than just showing ballroom dance couples looking elegant.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

Do I look elegant?

The New Yorker

She looks elegant.

The New York Times

Her burgundy outfit looked elegant nonetheless.

The New Yorker

Some look elegant, while others look awkward and clumsy.

The New York Times - Health

"It looks elegant," a customer chimed in.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looking elegant" to describe a visual impression of grace, style, and refinement. It is often applied to people, objects, or environments.

Common error

Avoid using "looking elegant" to describe mundane objects that do not typically convey elegance. Instead, reserve it for things that have a sophisticated or refined appearance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking elegant" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating the visual impression of elegance. Ludwig AI validates this usage through numerous examples of its descriptive nature.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

13%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "looking elegant" is a grammatically sound and commonly used adjective phrase that describes a visual impression of grace, style, and refinement. As verified by Ludwig AI, it functions to convey sophistication and is most frequently found in News & Media sources. While versatile, it's best reserved for describing subjects that genuinely evoke elegance, avoiding overuse with mundane objects. Consider alternatives such as "appearing sophisticated" or "exuding elegance" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exuding elegance

Suggests an inherent quality of refined beauty.

appearing sophisticated

Focuses on a refined and cultured appearance.

having an air of sophistication

Implies an intangible quality of class and refinement.

seeming graceful

Highlights the fluidity and poise of appearance.

boasting a classy appearance

Emphasizes the high-class nature of someone's style.

presenting a stylish image

Emphasizes the fashionable aspect of the appearance.

displaying a refined appearance

Highlights the attention to detail and polish in the look.

cut a fine figure

Uses an idiomatic expression to indicate an impressive and attractive appearance.

look polished

Focuses on neatness and attention to detail in one's appearance.

emanating chic

Highlights the fashionable and trendy aspect of looking elegant.

FAQs

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

You can use "looking elegant" to describe someone or something that possesses grace, style, and sophistication. For example: "She was "looking elegant" in her evening gown" or "The restaurant was "looking elegant" with its soft lighting and tasteful decor".

What are some alternatives to "looking elegant"?

Alternatives to "looking elegant" include "appearing sophisticated", "exuding elegance", or "having an air of sophistication". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "looking elegant" or "looking classy"?

Both "looking elegant" and "looking classy" are appropriate, but they emphasize different aspects. "Looking elegant" focuses on refined beauty and style, while "looking classy" emphasizes sophistication and high social status. The better choice depends on the specific context.

Can I use "looking elegant" to describe a man?

Yes, "looking elegant" can be used to describe a man, although it is more commonly applied to women. When used for a man, it suggests a refined and stylish appearance. For example: "He was "looking elegant" in his tailored suit".