looking glass

USAGE SUMMARY

"looking glass" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is a phrase used to refer to a mirror. For example, "She gazed into the looking glass and admired her reflection."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

37 human-written examples

You've passed through the looking glass.

The New York Times

We're through the looking glass.

The Washington Post

Friends, we are through the looking glass.

The New York Times

Prepare to step through the looking glass.

The Guardian - Opinion

It's like seeing through the looking glass.

The Guardian - Arts

The essay was a formidable looking glass.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

23 human-written examples

Fragonard and his looking-glass worlds.

The New Yorker

This is already a looking-glass world.

The Guardian - Arts

It's a trans-Atlantic looking-glass situation.

The New York Times - Arts

Patel formerly was CFO of Looking Glass Networks.

Forbes

The Christian's Looking-Glass.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context: while "looking glass" evokes a sense of wonder or illusion, "mirror" is generally more appropriate for everyday use.

Common error

Avoid using "looking glass" excessively in contemporary settings where "mirror" is more common. Overuse can make your writing sound affected or out of touch with modern language.

Linguistic Context

Noun phrase. The primary function of "looking glass" is to serve as a noun, typically acting as a direct object or subject in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, highlighting its role in various contexts from news articles to literary references.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Science & Research

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "looking glass" refers to a mirror, often carrying literary or symbolic connotations. Ludwig AI analysis confirms that it is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase, especially in News & Media. While "mirror" is a more common term in everyday contexts, "looking glass" evokes a sense of wonder and introspection. The phrase maintains a neutral register and can be used in various formal contexts. When deciding between "looking glass" and "mirror", consider the tone and context of your writing: use "looking glass" for a more literary or metaphorical effect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Mirror

A more common and direct synonym for a reflective surface.

Reflecting surface

Focuses on the primary function of the object.

Glass

Shortened version, emphasizes the material.

Reflective object

Highlights the ability to reflect images.

Portal

Emphasizes the figurative sense of entering another world or perspective.

Image reflector

Technical term for describing its purpose.

Surface of reflection

Focuses on the property of reflecting images from a surface.

Lens

Implies a device that focuses or alters perception.

Perspective

Abstract usage referring to a viewpoint or way of seeing.

Point of view

Emphasizes a particular way of considering or regarding something.

FAQs

What does "looking glass" mean?

A "looking glass" is an older term for a "mirror", often used in literary or figurative contexts.

When should I use "looking glass" instead of "mirror"?

Use "looking glass" when you want to evoke a sense of whimsy, fantasy, or historical setting. "Mirror" is more appropriate for modern, everyday contexts.

Is "looking glass" still commonly used today?

While "looking glass" is understood, it is less common than "mirror" in contemporary usage. It's often found in literature or historical references.

What is the origin of the phrase "looking glass"?

The phrase gained prominence from Lewis Carroll's "Through the Looking-Glass", which popularized its association with fantastical or alternate worlds.