Phrasal verbs are multi-word expressions that combine a verb with a preposition or adverb to create a new meaning different from the main verb. When used with the verb look, these combinations take on different meanings depending on the word that comes after it, such as after, for, or into. In this article, you’ll find a complete list of phrasal verbs with look, along with clear definitions and example sentences.
19 Phrasal Verbs with LOOK: Meanings & Examples
Below is a list of common phrasal verbs with look, explained with their different meanings and supported by clear example sentences to show how each is used in context.
1. Look after
Meaning: To take care of someone or something
Examples:
- I look after my niece when her parents are away.
- Can you look after my plants while I’m on vacation?
2. Look for
Meaning:
- To search or try to find someone or something
- To expect or hope for a certain behavior or outcome
Examples:
- She looked for her keys under the couch.
- We’re looking for someone with experience in marketing.
3. Look up
Meaning:
- To search for information (in books, online, directories)
- To improve or become better
- To contact or visit someone after a long time
Examples:
- I looked up the address in the phone book.
- Things are finally looking up at work.
- When you’re in town again, look me up.
4. Look out
Meaning:
- To watch carefully or be alert
- To warn someone of danger
Examples:
- Look out—there’s a car coming!
- You should look out when crossing the street.
5. Look into
Meaning: To investigate or explore something in detail
Examples:
- The company will look into the complaint.
- Can you look into the cause of the delay?
6. Look forward to
Meaning: To anticipate something with pleasure
Examples:
- I look forward to meeting you next week.
- She looks forward to her vacation every summer.
7. Look down on
Meaning: To consider someone or something inferior or unworthy
Examples:
- He tends to look down on people with less education.
- Never look down on someone for their mistakes.
8. Look up to
Meaning: To admire or respect someone
Examples:
- Many young fans look up to that athlete.
- I’ve always looked up to my grandmother for her wisdom.
9. Look over
Meaning:
- To examine or review something quickly or briefly
- To inspect for mistakes or problems
- To visit casually or check out a place or thing
Examples:
- The editor looked over the article before publishing.
- He looked over the contract with his lawyer.
- We looked over the apartment before deciding to rent it.
10. Look around
Meaning:
- To explore or survey a place or situation
- To consider alternatives
Examples:
- We looked around the neighborhood before buying a house.
- You might want to look around for a better deal.
11. Look back
Meaning:
- To reflect on the past
- To regret or reconsider past actions
Examples:
- Sometimes I look back on my childhood with fondness.
- Don’t look back—focus on what lies ahead.
12. Look out for
Meaning:
- To watch for something expected or likely
- To protect or help someone
Examples:
- Look out for pickpockets in crowded areas.
- She always looks out for her younger sister.
13. Look through
Meaning:
- To read or glance at something quickly
- To ignore or not notice someone
- To search among a collection of things
Examples:
- I looked through the report but didn’t read it in detail.
- He looked right past me—and I waved!
- She looked through old photos in the album.
14. Look away
Meaning: To deliberately turn your eyes away
Examples:
- He looked away when the fight started.
- Please don’t look away during the presentation.
15. Look ahead
Meaning: To plan or think about the future
Examples:
- We need to look ahead and prepare for next year.
- It’s smart to look ahead when making financial decisions.
16. Look on
Meaning:
- To watch something without taking part
- To interpret or perceive something in a certain way
Examples:
- They looked on as the children played soccer.
- She looked on the situation as a learning opportunity.
17. Look upon
Meaning: To regard or consider someone or something in a certain way
Examples:
- He looked upon the decision as unfair.
- Many cultures look upon elders with great respect.
18. Look in on
Meaning: To visit someone in their home to check on them or ensure they’re okay
Examples:
- I will look in on your grandparents tonight.
- The nurse looks in on patients in the morning.
19. Look to
Meaning:
- To rely on someone or something for help or support
- To expect or consider someone for advice or leadership
Examples:
- We look to our manager for guidance.
- Many people look to spiritual beliefs for comfort.
Quiz: Phrasal Verbs with LOOK
1. She always ____ her little sister when their parents are away.
a) looks after
b) looks up
c) looks for
2. I’m ____ my phone. Have you seen it?
a) looking out
b) looking for
c) looking on
3. ____ that slippery step. It’s dangerous!
a) Look over
b) Look up
c) Look out
4. I really ____ my grandmother. She’s so wise and kind.
a) look forward to
b) look up to
c) look around
5. We need to ____ the matter before making a decision.
a) look down
b) look into
c) look after
6. They ____ people who don’t have a college degree.
a) look out
b) look over
c) look down on
7. I’m really ____ the holidays. I need a break!
a) looking forward to
b) looking for
c) looking up to
8. She spent hours ____ job listings online.
a) looking around
b) looking over
c) looking through
9. She was ____ in silence as the ceremony continued.
a) looking on
b) looking in
c) looking forward
10. I’ll ____ your grandma while you’re away.
a) look over
b) look in on
c) look up to
Quiz Answers
1) looks after
2) looking for
3) look out
4) look up to
5) look into
6) look down on
7) looking forward to
8) looking through
9) looking on
10) look in on
