not looking like

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "not looking like" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that does not resemble or appear similar to something else. Example: "The painting is beautiful, but it is not looking like the original masterpiece."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Matt's not looking like he's having fun.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"Not looking like a woman, basically.

The Guardian

That's not looking like that's being the case this year.

The Guardian - Sport

They're not looking like the hungry people we expect.

The New York Times

You can pack different types of foods, while not looking like an idiot with a lunchbox.

Stanford University

"No, it's hilarious," Stewart says, not looking like she finds it very funny.

Independent

For the third season in a row, the Mets are not looking like a good team.

The New York Times - Sports

"She's a proper little battler … but it's not looking like we will be home for Christmas".

Independent

Already this was not looking like the St.Cyr I was expecting.

The Economist

He is not looking like a man who has the ear of his boss.

The Guardian - Opinion

9.38am BST Photograph: Kin Cheung/AP It's not looking like a great day for banks.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "not looking like", ensure the comparison is clear and the context provides sufficient information about what is being compared. This helps avoid ambiguity and ensures the message is easily understood.

Common error

Avoid using "not looking like" when a stronger, more direct comparison is needed. For example, instead of "the copy is not looking like the original", use "the copy doesn't match the original" for more emphasis.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "not looking like" functions as a comparative descriptor, indicating a lack of visual similarity or resemblance. Examples from Ludwig illustrate its use in describing everything from a person's mood to a team's performance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Wiki

12%

Academia

8%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "not looking like" is a versatile and commonly used expression to denote a lack of resemblance or expected appearance. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and appears frequently in News & Media, Wiki, and Academic contexts. While the phrase is suitable for both informal and neutral registers, it is essential to ensure clarity in the comparison. Related phrases include ""not resembling"" and ""not appearing to be"". Overall, using "not looking like" is generally acceptable and effective across diverse communication scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

does not look like

A more direct and simple way of expressing the same sentiment.

not appearing to be

Focuses on the appearance or impression given, rather than a direct comparison.

not seeming like

Emphasizes the perceived reality or impression, suggesting a subjective assessment.

not resembling

Highlights the lack of physical or visual similarity.

not giving the impression of

Focuses on the impression created, indicating a lack of certain qualities or characteristics.

not bearing resemblance to

Formally expresses a lack of similarity or likeness.

not having the appearance of

Highlights the visible aspect and its dissimilarity.

not in the style of

Focuses on a specific aesthetic or manner.

not indicative of

Emphasizes the lack of evidence or suggestion toward a certain outcome or state.

not suggestive of

Highlights the absence of hints or allusions to something.

FAQs

What does "not looking like" mean?

The phrase "not looking like" means that something does not resemble or appear similar to something else. It's used to express a lack of expected appearance or resemblance.

How can I use "not looking like" in a sentence?

You can use it to compare appearances. For example, "After the renovation, the house was "not looking like" its former self".

What can I say instead of "not looking like"?

Alternatives include "not resembling", "not appearing to be", or "not seeming like", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "not looking like" formal or informal?

It is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic or professional writing.