looking very smart

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looking very smart" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who appears well-dressed or stylish, often in a formal or professional context. Example: "She walked into the meeting looking very smart in her tailored suit."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Tough, good looking, very smart".

The New York Times

"He was better looking, very smart, and he was the one who got the most attention and love".

The New York Times

But as thousands of people across the region prepare for Bike to Work Day on Friday, the planners are looking very smart.

The Washington Post

Ninis on the right, looking very smart in Greece's all royal blue uniforms, smacks a shot low along the moist ground that Neuer has to go to the turf and stretch to tip wide.

The New York Times

While I made it clear that the great majority of them are looking very smart, and are behaving extremely well … I also told them that the poor behaviour, appearance, and lack of respect by the minority cannot continue… I know that we have the support of the great majority of pupils, parents and all the staff in this quest".

The Guardian

They were "always well put together, always looking very smart", he said.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

As a result, investors who feasted on soccer teams during the past decade or so are now looking very smart--especially those who bought English teams.

Forbes

"I looked very smart.

The New York Times

Which makes him look very smart.

The New York Times

These safeguards now look very smart.

The New York Times

"She looked very smart and sure of herself and beautiful".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looking very smart" to describe someone who is well-dressed, well-groomed, and projects an image of intelligence or competence. It is suitable for describing both appearance and perceived intellect.

Common error

While "looking very smart" is generally acceptable, overuse in highly formal writing can make your text sound less sophisticated. Consider alternatives like "appearing professional" or "presenting a polished image" in such settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking very smart" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective phrase. It modifies a noun or pronoun, describing someone's appearance, intelligence, or a combination of both. As Ludwig AI points out, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "looking very smart" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe someone who presents themself well, either through attire, appearance, or perceived intelligence. Ludwig AI confirms its usability, and while most frequently found in news and media, its neutral register makes it versatile for various situations. Be mindful of overuse in very formal contexts, and consider using alternative phrases like "appearing professional" or "presenting a polished image" when a more sophisticated tone is needed.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

presenting oneself smartly

Highlights the act of presenting oneself in an intelligent or stylish manner.

giving a sharp impression

Focuses on the impression created, often associated with both intelligence and style.

appearing well-groomed and intelligent

Combines aspects of both appearance and intelligence in equal measure.

with an astute appearance

Implies shrewdness and intelligence in the appearance.

appearing quite intelligent

Emphasizes intelligence rather than just appearance; focusing on perceived intellect.

looking particularly stylish

Shifts the focus purely to fashionable appearance, omitting the intellectual component.

presenting a polished image

Focuses on sophistication and refinement in appearance and possibly intellect.

seeming exceptionally clever

Highlights a high degree of cleverness, potentially beyond standard intelligence.

giving off an air of competence

Emphasizes the feeling of capability and intelligence that someone projects.

showing intellectual flair

Highlights creativity and style in one's intelligence.

FAQs

What does "looking very smart" mean?

It generally means someone appears well-dressed and projects an image of intelligence, competence, or sophistication. It can refer to both physical appearance and perceived intellect.

What can I say instead of "looking very smart"?

You can use alternatives like "appearing quite intelligent", "presenting oneself smartly", or "looking particularly stylish" depending on the specific context you intend to convey.

Is "looking very smart" formal or informal?

It's generally considered neutral in formality. It fits well in news articles, everyday conversations, and professional environments that are not overly formal. More formal situations might benefit from phrases like "appearing professional".

How to use "looking very smart" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe someone's appearance or behavior. For instance: "She was "looking very smart" in her new suit" or "The plan "looking very smart" for the company's future."