Phrasal verb
look for
Meanings
to try to find someone or something by searching
to search for information in a source such as a book, website, or list
to expect or hope for something to happen
Definition
To look for something means to try to find it.
When you look for something, you try to find it by searching or checking possible places. You may look for a lost object, needed information, or a person. It often implies effort over a short or long time until you locate what you need.
Examples
- I can’t find my keys, so I’m going to look for them in my bag.
- You should look for the address on the company’s website.
- He looked for a quiet place to sit and read.
- They’re looking for a new coach for the team.
- She is looking for a reply before she makes a decision.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse “look for” (search) with “look at” (direct your eyes toward something).
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.