Have you ever found yourself hesitating between saying “what it looks like” and “how it looks like”? You’re not alone.
This is a common point of confusion—even among fluent speakers. In English, a small grammatical misstep can change a sentence from correct to awkward.
In this article, we’ll unpack the difference between these two phrases, explore why one is right and the other isn’t, and give you the tools to avoid common pitfalls in everyday conversations and writing.
Wondering if you should say “what it looks like” or “how it looks like”? Only one is grammatically correct in standard English. While “what it looks like” properly introduces a noun clause to describe appearance or resemblance, “how it looks like” is considered incorrect due to structural redundancy. Curious why? Let’s dive deeper into the grammar.
Introduction to Common English Phrases
English is full of subtle quirks, especially when it comes to phrases that describe appearance or perception. Phrases like “what it looks like” and “how it looks like” may seem similar, but only one is grammatically correct.
Understanding these differences doesn’t just make you sound more fluent—it also helps you communicate more clearly.
Exploring the Grammar Behind “What It Looks Like”
To fully grasp why “what it looks like” is the correct form, you need to break it down grammatically:
- “What” functions as a relative pronoun or interrogative pronoun, depending on context.
- “It looks like” is a clause that conveys appearance or resemblance.
📌 Correct Example:
“I don’t know what it looks like.”
Here, “what” introduces the object of the verb “know.” The clause “what it looks like” stands in for the thing being described.
Why “What” Is the Right Choice
The word “what” refers to the specific thing being observed. It’s used to ask or refer to the identity or nature of something.
Grammatical Role:
- It acts as a noun clause.
- It’s commonly used in both direct and indirect questions.
✅ Correct Usage Examples:
- “Can you show me what it looks like?”
- “That’s not what it looks like at all!”
These examples highlight that “what it looks like” properly links a subject to a noun clause.
Examples in Context
Let’s look at real-world examples of “what it looks like” in action:
| Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|
| “This is what it looks like when you don’t follow instructions.” | The clause identifies the result or appearance. |
| “Do you remember what it looks like?” | The speaker is asking about the mental image or description. |
As you can see, “what” fits naturally because it refers to a thing or identity.
Prepositions and Their Objects
Here’s where many go wrong with “how it looks like”—the misuse of “like”.
🔍 Grammar Rule:
- “Like” is a preposition, and prepositions must be followed by a noun or pronoun, not another clause introduced by “how.”
Incorrect sentence:
❌ “I don’t know how it looks like.”
Why? Because “how” already introduces a clause, and adding “like” creates a grammatical clash. You’re essentially duplicating the comparison.
The Incorrect Phrase: “How It Looks Like”
Many non-native speakers mistakenly use “how it looks like” due to literal translations from their native languages or confusion between “how” and “what.”
Why It’s Incorrect:
- “How” introduces a method or manner.
- “Like” indicates a comparison.
- Together, they form a redundant structure that doesn’t make sense in English.
🛑 Wrong Example:
“Can you describe how it looks like?”
✔️ Fix: “Can you describe what it looks like?”
Understanding “How” in English Questions
While “how” is incorrect when used with “like,” it’s perfectly fine on its own:
✔️ Correct:
“How does it look?”
This structure uses “how” to inquire about the manner or condition.
Compare:
- “How does it look?” – Asking about appearance.
- “What does it look like?” – Asking for a description or resemblance.
Both are valid, but not interchangeable in every context.
Distinguishing Between “How It Looks” and “What It Looks Like”
Let’s break this down with comparisons:
| Phrase | Meaning | Correct Use? |
|---|---|---|
| “How it looks” | The manner or state of appearance | ✅ |
| “What it looks like” | The thing it resembles or appears to be | ✅ |
| “How it looks like” | Redundant and grammatically incorrect | ❌ |
Use “how it looks” when commenting directly on quality or condition:
“I like how it looks.”
Use “what it looks like” when describing an identity or comparison:
“It looks like a spaceship.”
Asking for Descriptions versus Value Judgments
Here’s how to choose between the two:
- If you’re asking how something appears in terms of condition or aesthetic, use “how it looks.”
- “How does the dress look on me?”
- If you’re asking what it resembles, use “what it looks like.”
- “What does that cloud look like?”
🧠 Key tip: If you can replace it with “what it resembles,” you should be using “what it looks like.”
Correcting Common Mistakes with “How” and “What”
Here are the top errors and how to fix them:
| ❌ Incorrect Phrase | ✅ Correct Alternative |
|---|---|
| “Tell me how it looks like.” | “Tell me what it looks like.” |
| “Can you show me how it looks like?” | “Can you show me what it looks like?” |
| “I’m not sure how it looks like.” | “I’m not sure what it looks like.” |
Misconceptions Among Native and Non-Native Speakers
Even native speakers sometimes slip up—especially in casual speech. However, these errors are less about fluency and more about habit or regional dialects.
For non-native speakers, the mistake often stems from:
- Literal translation
- Lack of exposure to correct forms
- Autocorrect or grammar tool errors
🗣️ Language educator quote:
“Understanding subtle differences like these is what takes learners from fluent to polished.” — Susan Greene, ESL Instructor
Practical Tips for Mastering English Phraseology
Want to stop second-guessing your grammar? Use these tips:
✅ Tips List:
- Read aloud and ask: Does this sound natural?
- Replace “how” or “what” with “this” in your head—if it makes sense, it’s probably correct.
- Avoid using “like” with “how.”
- Check reputable English usage resources like Merriam-Webster or Cambridge Dictionary.
- Pay attention to how native speakers use these phrases in movies, books, and podcasts.
✅ FAQs
What’s the difference between “what it looks like” and “how it looks like”?
“What it looks like” is correct English and refers to the appearance or resemblance of something. “How it looks like” is grammatically incorrect due to redundant structure.
Is it okay to say “how it looks”?
Yes. “How it looks” is correct when referring to the manner or condition of appearance, like in “I like how it looks.”
Why is “how it looks like” considered wrong?
Because it combines “how” (a clause introducer) with “like” (a preposition), creating redundancy. Use either “how it looks” or “what it looks like,” depending on context.
Can I say “Tell me what it looks like”?
Absolutely! That’s the proper structure when you want a description or visual reference.
How can I know when to use “what” vs. “how”?
Use “what” when asking for a comparison or resemblance. Use “how” when asking about the manner or condition of appearance.
Do native speakers make this mistake too?
Sometimes, especially in informal speech. However, “how it looks like” is generally avoided in professional or academic writing.
Conclusion: Simplifying Complex English Language Rules
To sum it up: “What it looks like” is the grammatically correct phrase when you’re describing something’s appearance or resemblance. “How it looks like” is incorrect because it combines structures that don’t fit together in standard English. When in doubt, consider whether you’re referring to the manner of appearance (how) or the specific resemblance (what).
Learning these distinctions helps you speak more confidently and write more precisely. And that’s what clear communication looks like.
