ordinary appearance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ordinary appearance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe something that looks typical and unremarkable. For example, "The old book had an ordinary appearance, but its pages were filled with extraordinary stories."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

I thought that my ordinary appearance was a perfect disguise.

The New Yorker

Although the doctors were never able to give him an ordinary appearance, Mr. McMillan took his place in the world.

The New York Times - Health

Both of these details, Marion's ordinary appearance and her extraordinary talent for appropriating other people's money, are fundamental to her character and therefore to the book's designs.

The New York Times - Books

The companies' offices and the millwork shop are housed in a former machine shop with a metal roof and a generally ordinary appearance.

The New York Times

By John Updike Schulz once said that his own ordinary appearance as a child was what prompted Charlie Brown's round, ordinary face.

The New Yorker

The found object, then, is almost always a symbol: something that has a weightier significance than its ordinary appearance seems to warrant; something that acts as a sign if only it can be decoded.

The Guardian - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

These books are out of the ordinary in appearance and tone, too, and suited, perhaps, not to the typical child (if such a person exists) but rather to older readers who sympathize with that feeling of disconnection.

The New York Times - Books

Most primitive orchids have a rather ordinary monocot appearance with a short rhizome stem and erect, nonthickened annual stems having scattered, spirally arranged leaves and a terminal inflorescence (flower cluster).

Encyclopedia Britannica

Plus, they can use dress and makeup to transform themselves, and to make themselves appear a lot more sexually attractive than they would be by just relying on their ordinary, unadorned appearance - whereas men are pretty much stuck with what they've got.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Yet, he or she is quite ordinary in appearance.

SEP

The medium of exchange between the eras is the mirror that runs along the store's length, ordinary in appearance but magical in its expressive power.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a character or object, follow "ordinary appearance" with specific details to create a contrast and highlight any hidden or unexpected qualities.

Common error

Avoid relying solely on "ordinary appearance" as a primary descriptor. Instead, use it as a starting point and then provide unique and engaging details to paint a more vivid picture.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ordinary appearance" functions as an adjective-noun combination modifying a subject. It characterizes the subject's external presentation as commonplace and unremarkable. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is suitable for describing something that looks typical.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "ordinary appearance" is a phrase used to describe something that lacks distinction or memorability. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable in written English. While the phrase is most commonly found in news and media contexts, it's crucial to complement it with specific details to avoid vagueness. Alternatives such as "unremarkable look" or "typical appearance" offer nuanced variations. Using "ordinary appearance" effectively involves recognizing its communicative purpose in setting a baseline of normalcy, often to contrast it with unexpected qualities or hidden depths.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

unremarkable look

Focuses on the lack of distinction or memorability in the appearance.

common appearance

Emphasizes the frequency with which such an appearance is seen.

typical appearance

Highlights the conformity to a standard or norm.

average appearance

Stresses the lack of exceptional or striking features.

plain appearance

Underscores the simplicity and lack of embellishment.

conventional appearance

Indicates adherence to established norms and expectations.

nondescript appearance

Highlights the difficulty in distinguishing or remembering the appearance.

standard appearance

Emphasizes the adherence to a recognized and accepted standard.

run-of-the-mill appearance

Suggests ordinariness to the point of being uninteresting.

unexceptional appearance

Highlights the absence of noteworthy or remarkable qualities.

FAQs

How can I use "ordinary appearance" in a sentence?

You can use "ordinary appearance" to describe someone or something that looks typical and unremarkable. For example, "Despite his "ordinary appearance", he possessed extraordinary abilities."

What are some alternatives to "ordinary appearance"?

Alternatives include "unremarkable look", "common appearance", or "typical appearance", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What is the difference between "ordinary appearance" and "plain appearance"?

"Ordinary appearance" suggests a general lack of distinction, while "plain appearance" emphasizes simplicity and a lack of embellishment or adornment.

Is it correct to say someone has an "ordinary appearance"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. It's a common way to describe someone whose looks are not particularly striking or memorable.