As a linguistic expert with a deep understanding of the English language, I am well-versed in the nuances of its grammar and usage. The distinction between "look" and "looks" primarily lies in the context in which they are used. "Look" is typically used as a verb, indicating the act of directing one's gaze, while "looks" is the third-person singular present tense form of the verb. However, the question at hand seems to be inquiring about the use of "look" in a noun form, specifically when referring to the appearance of something.
In English, "look" as a noun does not have a plural form when referring to the appearance or visual aspect of something. The word "look" is used as a singular noun to describe the way something appears or is perceived visually. For example, you might say, "The new design has a modern *look*," where "look" is singular and does not change based on the number of items being described.
The confusion might arise from the fact that "looks" can be used in certain idiomatic expressions or fixed phrases where it appears to be a plural noun. For example, in the phrase "three looks at a blackbird," "looks" is used to mean "glances" or "views," which is an exception to the general rule.
It is also important to note that "looks" can be used in a collective sense, similar to words like "clothes" or "scissors," where the noun is treated as a plural even though it refers to a single entity. However, this usage is more common in informal speech rather than formal writing.
In summary, when referring to the appearance of something, "look" should be used in its singular form. The use of "looks" in a plural sense is not standard when talking about appearance, and it is typically reserved for idiomatic expressions or informal speech.
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