looking their best

USAGE SUMMARY

"looking their best" is a grammatically correct phrase and is commonly used in written English.
It means that someone or something is appearing as attractive or in the best condition possible. Example: The models arrived at the fashion show looking their best, sporting the latest designer outfits. Another example: The gardeners worked tirelessly to ensure the flowers were looking their best for the upcoming garden show.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

Our readers want to see people looking their best".

The Guardian

Also, just to keep the plants looking their best.

The New York Times

They looked miserable, angry and apologised for not looking their best.

The Guardian - Travel

Eight hundred guests, all looking their best, and about 150 of us, all looking our best.

The New York Times - Travel

And it doesn't take them long to realise there's much work to be done to get their gardens looking their best.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Christmas and Easter are when the priests really want them looking their best," he said of the brightly painted wooden statues dating back to 1876 that decorate SS.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

They don't look their best.

The New Yorker

People want to look their best".

The New York Times

They want to look their best".

The New York Times

"I ask how I can make them look their best".

The New York Times

"Jeff can also do people playing golf, or at the beach, wherever they look their best".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a group or team, use "looking their best" to convey that all members are presenting themselves in an appealing or optimal manner.

Common error

While "looking their best" is widely understood, avoid using it excessively in formal documents or academic papers. Opt for more precise language depending on the specific context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking their best" functions as a descriptive phrase, typically modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate that someone or something is appearing in its most attractive or optimal state. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "looking their best" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe someone or something appearing in its most attractive or optimal condition. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts, particularly in news, media, and lifestyle content. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to use more precise language in highly formal or scientific writing. Alternatives such as "at their finest" or "in top form" can provide nuanced variations. Remember to maintain consistency and ensure the phrase aligns with your desired tone and audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at their finest

Focuses on a state of peak condition or appearance, often implying elegance or refinement.

in top form

Highlights optimal performance or condition, suitable for both people and objects.

at their peak

Emphasizes the highest point of achievement or appearance, suggesting excellence.

in the best light

Implies portraying someone or something in a favorable manner, often through strategic presentation.

most attractive

Directly addresses the level of attractiveness or appeal.

well-groomed

Focuses on the act of maintaining a tidy and appealing appearance through grooming practices.

in perfect condition

Highlights a state of flawlessness, emphasizing a lack of damage or wear.

in tip-top shape

Emphasizes excellent physical or functional condition, often used informally.

looking sharp

Suggests a stylish and put-together appearance, often used informally to describe someone's attire.

radiant appearance

Emphasizes a glowing and healthy look, suggesting vitality and beauty.

FAQs

How can I use "looking their best" in a sentence?

You can use "looking their best" to describe someone's appearance, such as "The models were "looking their best" on the runway" or to describe something's condition, such as "The garden was "looking their best" after the rain".

What are some alternatives to "looking their best"?

Alternatives include "at their finest", "in top form", or "most attractive", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "look their best"?

While "look their best" might be understood, the correct form is "looking their best" when describing a continuous state or action. For example, "They are "looking their best"" is correct.

What is the difference between "looking their best" and "being their best"?

"Looking their best" refers to outward appearance or presentation, while "being their best" refers to performance, effort, or character. They describe different aspects of a person or thing.