respectable looking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "respectable looking" 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 appearance. Example: "He walked into the room looking respectable, dressed in a tailored suit and polished shoes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

6 human-written examples

But wait, why then is his Test average a perfectly respectable looking 38.14?

The Guardian - Sport

On a recent evening, most of the crowd was over 50, under 80, respectable looking and French.

The New York Times

But it’s very well run, boasts double digit operating margins and has a respectable looking balance sheet.

Forbes

AOS is cheap relative to its expected earnings power with a PEG of 0.99, and it's got a respectable looking balance sheet, with total debt/equity in the most recent quarter of 0.42.

Forbes

The Charlotte, N.C.-based company sports double-digit operating margins and a respectable looking balance sheet (debt/equity ratio is 53%), and it is now dirt-cheap, with a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.43.

Forbes

There are myriad defenses for script that I've come across, all a little more plausible than teaching kids to sign a respectable looking signature.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Mutch's 88th-minute header, from a Kenwyne Jones knockdown, after the Liverpool defence again went missing, gave the scoreline a more respectable look from Cardiff's point of view but Suárez was not finished.

The Guardian - Sport

Biarritz managed to give the scoreline a slightly more respectable look as hooker Heguy continued his fine try-scoring form.

BBC

Tries from Owen and Webster, one of six debutants for Castleford, reduced the deficit and gave the scoreline a more respectable look, but the damage had already been done.

BBC

Its weaknesses are momentary; overall, it is a fun salute to the past 15 years and a respectable look to the future".

Wikipedia

It was striking how much more "respectable" they looked than Hunter – some of them professional men with wives and families.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a person's character or profession, use "respectable looking" to subtly imply trustworthiness or social acceptance based on their appearance.

Common error

Avoid using "respectable looking" as the sole indicator of someone's character. Back up the initial impression with concrete actions or behaviors to avoid superficial judgments.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "respectable looking" functions primarily as a descriptive adjective, modifying a noun to indicate that the person or object has an appearance that is considered socially acceptable and worthy of respect. Ludwig confirms this usage with multiple real-world examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "respectable looking" serves as a descriptive adjective indicating an appearance that conveys social acceptance and trustworthiness. Ludwig's analysis, alongside real-world examples, confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and used in a variety of contexts, most commonly in news and media. Alternatives such as "presentable" or "dignified in appearance" may offer a more nuanced description. Remember to use this phrase judiciously, avoiding reliance on appearance as the sole indicator of character.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

presentable

Focuses more on neatness and suitability for being seen.

dignified in appearance

Emphasizes a sense of stateliness and honor in one's look.

well-regarded in appearance

Highlights that their appearance is admired by other people.

of good appearance

General term indicating a positive visual impression.

respectable in aspect

Formal term suggesting a dignified and honorable appearance.

seemly in appearance

Implies that the appearance is appropriate and fitting for the context.

decent looking

Suggests a basic level of respectability and acceptability.

having a polished appearance

Indicates that the appearance is refined and well-maintained.

having a dignified mien

More sophisticated vocabulary choice to point out at someone's appearance.

of presentable appearance

Highlights the condition of being fit to be seen or presented to others.

FAQs

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

Use "respectable looking" to describe someone or something that conveys a sense of social acceptance and good reputation based on appearance. For example, "He aimed to be "respectable looking" for the interview, wearing a suit and tie".

What are some alternatives to "respectable looking"?

Alternatives include "presentable", "dignified in appearance", or "well-regarded in appearance", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to describe someone as "respectable looking"?

Yes, but use it with sensitivity. It implies they project an image that society deems acceptable. Consider the potential for superficiality or judgment based solely on appearance.

Which is correct, "respectable looking" or "respectfully looking"?

"Respectable looking" refers to appearance. "Respectfully looking" is grammatically incorrect; instead, use "looking respectful" to describe someone's manner of looking with respect.