visually speaking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "visually speaking" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to suggest that something is best described or understood when viewed, rather than expressed in words. For example, "Visually speaking, the painting is beautiful, with vibrant colors and intricate details."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

30 human-written examples

Visually speaking, this framework has its moments.

The New York Times

Whatever other faults it has, visually speaking, Thief is sublime.

The Guardian - Tech

Visually speaking, Grimes holds another set of trump cards.

The Guardian - Music

"Visually speaking, Rebecca and I can practically finish each other sentences," she says.

The New York Times

It can undo us any time, a fact that is best conveyed, visually speaking, coolly.

The New York Times

That was all well and good, visually speaking, but what about a soundtrack?

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

She adds: "Rashaad Newsome's work visually speaks more linearly to the colloquial understanding of 'fabulous' Bedroom Eyes (2015) has the glitz, glam, sensual beauty that is so often associated with fabulous.

Vice

It has been shown that adults can visually discriminate spoken languages as long as at least one of the languages is their first (L1) or second (L2) language (Ronquest, Levi, & Pisoni, 2010; Soto-Faroco et al., 2007).

Brain and Language

This being said, visually and emotionally speaking there are quite a few pictures of mine that I would rank higher.

Huffington Post

A block design was employed in which the tasks for the subject were to listen passively to singing of the song lyrics, passively listen to speaking of the song lyrics, covertly sing the song lyrics visually presented, covertly speak the song lyrics visually presented, and to rest.

NeuroImage

Based on the curly scribbles of Mr. Gehry -- drawings in many ways reminiscent of the attempts of white hipster artists to visualize jazz in the 50's -- the abstract, organic, visually elusive building speaks not about music history but about music appreciation.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "visually speaking" to introduce an observation or judgment based primarily on visual characteristics, especially when contrasting with other aspects like functionality or cost.

Common error

While acceptable, "visually speaking" might sound informal in highly academic or business contexts. Opt for phrases like "from a visual standpoint" or "in terms of visual appearance" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "visually speaking" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a clause to indicate that the statement being made is from a visual perspective. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It sets the context for an observation primarily based on appearance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

69%

Arts

15%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "visually speaking" is a correct and commonly used adverbial phrase that indicates a statement is based on visual perception. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, noting its use across various contexts, primarily in News & Media. While generally neutral, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives in academic or business settings. Consider phrases like "from a visual standpoint" or "in terms of visuals" for enhanced formality. When employing "visually speaking", ensure it introduces an observation directly related to visual characteristics for optimal impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in visual terms

A more concise way to express the same concept.

from a visual standpoint

Replaces "speaking" with "standpoint", emphasizing a specific viewpoint.

from a visual perspective

Similar to "standpoint" but uses "perspective" to denote a point of view.

in terms of visuals

Focuses on the visual aspect using a more direct prepositional phrase.

on the visual front

Suggests a specific area or aspect being considered.

aesthetically speaking

Highlights the aesthetic qualities, replacing the general "visually" with a more specific term.

concerning the visual elements

More detailed and specific, emphasizing elements rather than overall view.

regarding the visual aspect

More formal and descriptive, replacing "speaking" with a noun.

looking at it visually

Emphasizes the act of viewing and considering something.

from what one can see

Focuses on observable aspects, implying a degree of interpretation.

FAQs

How can I use "visually speaking" in a sentence?

Use "visually speaking" to introduce an observation or judgment based primarily on visual characteristics. For example, "Visually speaking, the new design is much more appealing."

What phrases are similar to "visually speaking"?

You can use alternatives like "from a visual standpoint", "in terms of visuals", or "aesthetically speaking depending on the context.

Is "visually speaking" appropriate for formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "visually speaking" may be considered less formal. For academic or business contexts, alternatives like "in terms of visual appearance" might be more suitable.

What does "visually speaking" actually mean?

It means considering something primarily from its appearance or how it looks, rather than other factors such as functionality or cost. It indicates that your assessment is based on visual qualities.