looks respectable

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looks respectable" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that appears to have a good reputation or is deemed appropriate in a particular context. Example: "Despite its humble exterior, the restaurant looks respectable and has received positive reviews from customers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

Though its capital ratio looks respectable, payments are late on half of its lending book.

The Economist

The reputation of economic forecasting as a science, which makes astrology looks respectable, reflects the same scepticism.

Independent

With a gross of £1.18m and third place, numbers looks respectable for latest Johnny Depp film, Transcendence.

The Guardian - Film

If the final scoreline looks respectable enough from a Wasps perspective it could have been a very different story.

The Guardian - Sport

As the Thai military and its civilian allies labour in vain to create a political system that looks respectable but in which the pro-Thaksin forces cannot win, there are signs that elements within the regime understand that some form of accommodation might be more realistic and more successful.

The Guardian - Opinion

Breakfasts are designed to be eaten alone or with immediate family, as nobody looks respectable chasing the last of their Rice Krispies around the milk lake in their bowl.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

I want to look respectable".

The Guardian

Honestly, they make the characters in "The Godfather" look respectable.

The New York Times - Sports

Only a late rally made the final score look respectable.

The New York Times - Sports

Patriots quarterback Matt Cassel made that number look respectable.

The New York Times - Sports

Surely both of us look respectable, so what is the reason?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a physical space or object, use "looks respectable" to convey that it meets a certain standard of quality or maintenance. For instance, "The lobby looks respectable after the renovations."

Common error

Avoid using "looks respectable" in overly casual or informal conversations. Opt for simpler terms like "nice" or "good" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looks respectable" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate that something or someone appears to be worthy of respect or has a good outward appearance. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, the phrase is grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

87%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "looks respectable" is a grammatically correct and useful way to describe something that presents a good outward appearance or reputation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. While not overly common, it's most frequently found in news and media contexts. When writing, use "looks respectable" to describe something that meets certain standards of quality or maintenance. However, avoid overuse in informal settings. Alternatives include phrases like "appears dignified" or "seems reputable".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

appears dignified

Emphasizes a formal and composed appearance.

seems reputable

Focuses on having a good reputation or being trustworthy.

presents a good image

Highlights the creation of a positive external perception.

gives a favorable impression

Stresses the positive impact on someone's perception.

has a credible appearance

Indicates trustworthiness and believability based on looks.

projects an air of respectability

Focuses on the impression of being worthy of respect.

has a polished look

Highlights a refined and sophisticated appearance.

carries a sense of decorum

Emphasizes proper and polite behavior and appearance.

maintains a professional demeanor

Focuses on maintaining appropriate behavior and appearance in a professional setting.

cuts a fine figure

Implies an attractive and impressive appearance.

FAQs

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

You can use "looks respectable" to describe something that gives a good impression, for example: "The restaurant "looks respectable" from the outside, so let's try it".

What is a more formal alternative to "looks respectable"?

A more formal alternative would be "appears reputable" or "presents a dignified image".

Which is correct: "looks respectable" or "look respectable"?

"Looks respectable" is correct when referring to a singular subject, while "look respectable" would be used for plural subjects. Example: "The business plan "looks respectable"". But: "The team members "look respectable"".

What's the difference between "looks respectable" and "seems decent"?

"Looks respectable" implies a good external appearance or reputation, whereas "seems decent" suggests basic adequacy or acceptability. "Looks respectable" is a stronger endorsement than "seems decent".