English Expressions with Look

by the look(s) of it

When we are not sure about something and we ask for a second opinion or someone’s view on it. The reply we get will often include this phrase ‘by the look of it.’ 

For example: 

Mary is reading a legal banking document that is not really written in clear simple English. She asks her colleague Catherine to have a look at a particular section and give her view/opinion as to what it means. 

Catherine reads it several times and says:

By the look of it, it appears that they want you to give a personal guarantee. I am not a banker but that is how I read it. I think you should call them and clarify it.

English expressions with look

looks like it

Again, when we are asked for our opinion, we often use this phrase. We are using it to confirm what the other person wants to hear. 

For example: 

John received a reply to his request for a promotion. He had been working in the same position for more than 3 years. His boss replied to say how much they valued his work how important he was to the company in the position he holds. 

He asked his colleague Mathew:

I think they are telling me I am not getting that promotion. What do you think?

Mathew looks at the email and replies:

Yes, it looks like it to me.

Meaning I  would agree with your view.