English grammar mistakes | using nouns: appearance, outlook, looks Public art can have a considerable effect on the outlook of public spaces. [incorrect] Public art can have a considerable effect on the appearance of public spaces. [correct] The appearance of something is the way it looks and a person's appearance is the way the person looks [their face, body, hair etc.] and the way they dress: Artificial ingredients are sometimes added to enhance the taste or appearance of food . Many young women spend a lot of time on their appearance . [not their appearances ] A person's looks refers to how attractive they are - their face, etc. but not their clothes: She had gone grey and lost her looks . [= she was not as attractive as before]. A person's outlook is the way they think about their life and the future: The accident completely changed her outlook on life. She enjoys each day more now . How to use English modal verbs English Grammar