unfortunate appearance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "unfortunate appearance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation or condition that is regrettable or undesirable in terms of how something looks or presents itself. Example: "The painting had an unfortunate appearance due to the fading colors and cracks in the canvas."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

That brings us back to Bush's self-portraits, which have the unfortunate appearance of having been painted by numbers.

The New Yorker

As they get bigger, these super-size vegetables take on the unfortunate appearance of terribly obese humans, stretched beyond the capacity of their skins.

The New York Times

Apart from the obvious – the unfortunate appearance of Australia's alternative prime minister being questioned for two days in a quasi-legal proceeding – there were the specifics.

The Guardian

His unfortunate appearance in a white shellsuit and a single cricket pad on Sunday may have had something to do with it.

The Guardian

Hubbard created the Church of Scientology -- news to just about no one -- and when the beams of light fly into the bound Mr. Pepper's head, it has the unfortunate appearance of a nightmare version of Scientology.

The New York Times

The rock categories and new artist category look dodgy, and there could be an unfortunate appearance by Seth MacFarlane, "traditional pop vocalist".

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

In "Orkney," although exegesis makes a few unfortunate appearances ("What is the nature of this enchantment? Or is it only madness, or a dream, and if so, whose?"), Sackville does not force sense onto feeling.

The New York Times - Books

But days before his awful speech Tuesday night, Jindal said something totally misleading - something that made him an idol to wingnuts - at least until his unfortunate television appearance.

Huffington Post

"The boxer is played by Paul Newman, an actor with an unfortunate resemblance in appearance, style and mannerisms to Marlon Brando.

Independent

Lumpish, with stunted pectoral fins that they use for ponderously slow swimming in cold and dark Arctic waters, they have blunt snouts and gaping mouths that give them an unfortunate, dull-witted appearance.

The New Yorker

Ms. Ellis astonishingly renders, opulent note for note, the overwrought vocal stylings of Ms. McDonald in "Porgy and Bess," as well as the unfortunate tone-deaf appearance of Catherine Zeta-Jones (singing "Send in the Clowns" from "A Little Night Music") at the 2010 Tony Awards show.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing something with an "unfortunate appearance", be specific about what makes it so. Instead of saying 'The room had an unfortunate appearance', try 'The room had an unfortunate appearance, with mismatched furniture and peeling wallpaper'.

Common error

Avoid using "unfortunate appearance" for minor aesthetic flaws. Reserve it for situations where the appearance genuinely detracts from the overall impression or functionality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "unfortunate appearance" functions as a descriptive element, typically serving as the subject complement or part of an adjectival phrase modifying a noun. It describes the visual quality of something, conveying a sense of regret or negativity about its looks. This is supported by Ludwig which states that is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

0%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "unfortunate appearance" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe something that looks unappealing or regrettable. As Ludwig confirms, it is widely used in various contexts, particularly in news and media. While the phrase is generally appropriate, it’s important to use it judiciously and to be specific about what makes the appearance unfortunate. Related phrases, such as "displeasing appearance" or "bad appearance", can provide alternative ways to express a similar sentiment. However, remember that using "unfortunate appearance" should reserved for situations where the aesthetic flaw has a relevant impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bad appearance

Uses a more general adjective, conveying a similar negative meaning but with less specificity.

unpleasant appearance

Replaces 'unfortunate' with 'unpleasant', emphasizing the disagreeable nature of the appearance.

displeasing appearance

Highlights the lack of aesthetic satisfaction.

sad appearance

Replaces 'unfortunate' with 'sad', focusing on the emotional aspect of the appearance.

undesirable appearance

Focuses on the unwanted or unwelcomed nature of the appearance.

unfortunate impression

Shifts focus from visual to overall impact. "Impression" broadens the scope beyond just looks.

unfortunate image

Emphasizes the visual representation rather than the general appearance.

disappointing appearance

Highlights the failure to meet expectations in terms of appearance.

lamentable appearance

Uses a more formal and emphatic adjective, suggesting a more serious level of regret or disapproval.

sorrowful appearance

Links the appearance to a feeling of sadness, adding an emotional dimension.

FAQs

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

You can use "unfortunate appearance" to describe something that looks bad or unappealing. For example: "The old building had an unfortunate appearance due to years of neglect."

What's a more formal way to say "unfortunate appearance"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "displeasing appearance" or "lamentable appearance". These options convey a similar meaning but with a higher degree of formality.

Is there a difference between "unfortunate appearance" and "bad appearance"?

"Unfortunate appearance" suggests that the appearance is regrettable or caused by circumstances, while "bad appearance" is a more general term for something that looks unappealing. "Unfortunate" implies a sense of pity or regret that "bad" doesn't necessarily carry.

What are some situations where I might use the phrase "unfortunate appearance"?

You might use "unfortunate appearance" to describe the state of a building in disrepair, a poorly executed artistic work, or even someone's physical state due to illness or injury. The key is that there's a negative aspect to the way something looks, often due to circumstances beyond control.