looking human

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looking human" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that appears to have human characteristics or qualities, often in contexts related to technology, art, or behavior. Example: "The robot was designed to be more relatable by looking human, which helped it connect better with users."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Shaming women for looking human is not new.

Independent

"But don't confuse looking human with looking weak.

The New York Times

"But it was fascinating how quickly they start to become simply targets and stop looking human".

The New Yorker

People accept things can go wrong, but people don't like to see 'scripts', they want to see people looking human".

The Guardian

Ah yes, we know the type, more often conceived as a male: busy mouth and empty regard, appetite without a soul, looking human while calling into question everything we cherish about our fellow man.

The New York Times - Books

Lester gets Holliday to pop out to Ellsbury in center, Beltran pops to Drew at shortstop, and then Molina, looking human, has another line drive, this one right at Dustin Pedroia.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The pub had quite a few people in it, just normal looking humans playing pool, or drinking at tables.

The Guardian - Opinion

But the greatest difficulty he faces is looking human-rights violations in the eyes every day without letting it get to him.

Science Magazine

He does not attempt to make Stalin look humane; he does make him look human.

The Guardian

He barely even looks human any more.

The Guardian - Film

Yet its victims don't look human.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looking human" when describing the physical appearance or outward presentation of something, especially in contrast to non-human or artificial forms. For example, a robot or an alien character might be described as "looking human".

Common error

Avoid using "looking human" when you mean to convey that someone or something has genuine human emotions, empathy, or moral character. While something can "look human", it doesn't automatically possess humanity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking human" primarily functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun to describe something that possesses human-like characteristics or appearance. Ludwig AI indicates it's a correct and usable phrase in English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "looking human" is a grammatically sound and commonly used way to describe something that visually resembles a human. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is acceptable in written English. While the phrase may not be particularly frequent, it appears across diverse contexts, from news reports and scientific articles to more informal discussions. While the phrase is versatile, avoid substituting human qualities with physical resemblance. Consider alternatives like "appearing human" or "resembling a human" to fine-tune your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appearing human

Focuses on the visual aspect of resembling a human.

seeming human

Highlights the impression or perception of being human.

resembling a human

Emphasizes the similarity in form or features to a human.

having human-like features

Specifically refers to possessing characteristics typical of humans.

with human semblance

Implies an outward show or facade of being human.

acting human

Shifts the focus from appearance to behavior and mannerisms.

behaving like a human

Similar to 'acting human', but emphasizes actions and conduct.

exhibiting human traits

Highlights the display of qualities and characteristics associated with humans.

possessing humanity

Suggests having the qualities of compassion, empathy, or understanding.

emulating human nature

Focuses on imitation or mirroring of human behaviors and emotions.

FAQs

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

You can use "looking human" to describe something that resembles a human in appearance. For example: "The robot was designed to be more relatable by looking human, which helped it connect better with users."

What is a good alternative to "looking human"?

Alternatives to "looking human" include "appearing human", "seeming human", or "resembling a human", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "looks human" instead of "looking human"?

Yes, both "looks human" and "looking human" can be correct, but they have different grammatical functions. "Looks human" is a verb phrase, while "looking human" functions as an adjective modifying a noun.

What's the difference between "looking human" and "acting human"?

"Looking human" refers to physical appearance or outward resemblance, while "acting human" refers to behavior, mannerisms, or displaying human-like qualities.