looks better

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looks better" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when comparing the appearance or quality of something to indicate an improvement or preference. Example: "After the redesign, the website looks better than it did before."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

She looks better.

The New Yorker

It just looks better.

The New York Times

"It looks better".

The New Yorker

This version actually looks better.

The New York Times - Arts

Even print advertising looks better.

The Economist

"Everything looks better in retrospect.

Independent

I think it looks better.

The New Yorker

"If it looks better, great.

The New York Times

But it looks better.

The Guardian - Music

Like-new looks better.

The New York Times - Arts

"The game looks better.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When comparing two options, use "looks better" to express a subjective preference based on appearance. For example, "This design looks better than the previous one."

Common error

Ensure your comparison is clear. Instead of saying "It looks better", specify what "it" is and what it looks better than. Provide context to make the comparison meaningful.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looks better" functions as a comparative adjective phrase, indicating a subjective assessment of improved visual appeal. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in diverse contexts, highlighting its role in expressing preference or enhancement.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Reference

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "looks better" is a common and grammatically sound way to express a preference for the visual appearance of something over another. According to Ludwig, its use is widespread across various contexts, with a neutral register that makes it suitable for many, but not all, situations. When writing, ensure clarity by specifying what is being compared and consider more formal alternatives like "appears improved" in professional or academic settings. Ludwig's analysis reinforces the phrase's correct usage and frequent occurrence in English writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is more attractive

Directly indicates an increase in attractiveness or appeal.

appears superior

Emphasizes a higher degree of visual appeal or quality.

possesses a nicer appearance

Indicates having a more pleasant or agreeable look.

presents more favorably

Highlights the improved presentation or impression.

displays greater appeal

Highlights the enhanced attractiveness and interest it generates.

has an enhanced look

Focuses on the overall improvement in visual presentation.

is visually enhanced

Focuses on the enhancement of visual elements.

is visually improved

Similar to 'visually enhanced' but emphasizes the state of being improved.

has a better aesthetic

Refers specifically to an improvement in artistic or visual design.

shows improvement

Focuses on the process of becoming better in appearance.

FAQs

What does "looks better" mean?

The phrase "looks better" implies a favorable comparison based on visual appearance. It suggests that one thing has a more pleasing or attractive appearance than another.

What can I say instead of "looks better"?

You can use alternatives like "appears superior", "is more attractive", or "presents more favorably" depending on the context.

How do I use "looks better" in a sentence?

Use "looks better" to compare the visual appearance of two or more things. For example, "The updated website design looks better than the old one."

Is "looks better" formal or informal?

"Looks better" is generally considered informal. In more formal contexts, you might opt for phrases like "appears improved" or "presents more favorably".