look black

Idioms and Phrases

Appear threatening or unfavorable, as in The future looked black for Henry after he dropped out of school . This expression employs black in the sense of “boding ill,” a usage dating from about 1700. Also see under dirty look .

Example Sentences

It began to look black for the friend, but the man for a while had a clear character and was getting in good spirits.

From Project Gutenberg

The ferrule will look black when this happens and will thus be recognized.

From Project Gutenberg

Who else are you thinking of, when you say things look black against others than Sidney?

From Project Gutenberg

The clouds look black and threatening, and I keep my mind in a state to meet the worst.

From Project Gutenberg

We should see the roofs and chimneys of the village, and the great Chantrey elms look black against the sky.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• glare
• glower
• grimace
• pout