looks grand

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looks grand" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that appears impressive or magnificent, often in a visual context. Example: "The new building looks grand against the skyline, with its towering spires and intricate design."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

He still looks grand.

The New York Times

Sure, xzyqt looks grand, but how do you say it?

The New York Times - Magazine

Yet my coat still looks grand, 10 years on.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But it still looks grand and (let's get to what really matters here) it offers a new way to consume enriched plutonium of pork.

The New York Times - Food

Vienna looks grand, as does Sarah Winter as Alma, though it is hard to tell if she is motivated by ardor, caprice or frustrated creativity.

The New York Times

Every Friday for a period in the late 1970s, the corporation hired a helicopter and flew potential investors over the site: everything looks grand from the air.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

"It looked grand.

The New York Times

Mr. Leach looked grand in this company, almost removed.

The New Yorker

Photos of the missing — forever smiling, forever holding their children, forever looking grand in gowns and tuxedos — cast a spell.

The New York Times

One imagines that, set against live music, the works would look grand; alone, they feel heavy-handed.

The New Yorker

Ms. LaBelle, who was to receive the SAMMY CAHN Lifetime Achievement Award, certainly looked grand.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looks grand" to describe something visually impressive or elegant, such as buildings, landscapes, or formal attire. It effectively conveys a sense of magnificence and aesthetic appeal.

Common error

Avoid using "looks grand" in everyday, casual conversations. The phrase is better suited for formal or descriptive writing where a sense of sophistication is desired.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looks grand" functions as a descriptive phrase, specifically an adjective phrase. It modifies a noun, conveying a visual assessment of something that appears impressive or magnificent. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Science

3%

Wiki

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "looks grand" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adjective phrase to describe something visually impressive or magnificent. It frequently appears in news and media contexts, conveying a sense of admiration or awe. While suitable for formal writing, it should be used judiciously in casual conversations. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its purpose is to highlight the elegant or splendid qualities of the subject. When choosing alternatives, consider options like "appears magnificent" or "seems impressive" to maintain a similar tone and emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appears magnificent

Emphasizes the spectacular or impressive nature of the appearance.

seems impressive

Highlights the notable or remarkable quality of the appearance.

has a majestic appearance

Focuses on the stately and dignified quality of the appearance.

presents a striking image

Highlights the vivid and attention-grabbing aspect of the appearance.

is visually stunning

Emphasizes the beautiful and breathtaking nature of the appearance.

exudes elegance

Highlights the refined and graceful quality of the appearance.

possesses an imposing presence

Focuses on the commanding and impressive effect of the appearance.

is remarkably beautiful

Highlights the noteworthy and exceptional beauty of the appearance.

projects grandeur

Focuses on the imposing and magnificent effect of the appearance.

makes a splendid impression

Highlights the excellent and memorable effect of the appearance.

FAQs

How can I use "looks grand" in a sentence?

You can use "looks grand" to describe something that appears impressive or magnificent. For example, "The palace "looks grand" against the backdrop of the mountains".

What are some alternatives to saying "looks grand"?

Alternatives include "appears magnificent", "seems impressive", or "has a majestic appearance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "looks grand" in formal writing?

Yes, "looks grand" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing something with elegance and visual appeal. It is less suitable for informal conversations.

What is the difference between saying "looks grand" and "is grand"?

"Looks grand" implies a visual assessment of grandeur, while "is grand" suggests an inherent quality of magnificence. The former focuses on appearance, and the latter focuses on essence.