are looking for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are looking for" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is commonly used to indicate a search for something or someone. You can use it when discussing a specific search or in a general statement. Example 1: "We are looking for a new marketing manager to join our team." Example 2: "I am looking for my keys, have you seen them?" Example 3: "Many people are looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint." Example 4: "The police are looking for the suspect in connection with the robbery."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

changes are looking for".

The New York Times

What we are looking for.

The New York Times

They are looking for revenge.

The New York Times

They are looking for warmth".

The New York Times

"They are looking for adventures".

The New Yorker

"Schools are looking for stability.

The New York Times - Sports

"People are looking for alternatives.

The New York Times

All are looking for solutions.

The Economist

Both are looking for jobs.

The New York Times

You are looking for trouble".

Independent

"We are looking for somewhere to sleep".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing, ensure the subject performing the search is clearly identified to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify "researchers are looking for a solution" instead of just stating "a solution is being looked for".

Common error

Avoid using "is looking for" with plural subjects. Remember, the correct form for plural subjects is "are looking for". For instance, "The team is looking for new members" is incorrect. The correct sentence is "The team are looking for new members".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are looking for" functions as a verb phrase indicating an active search or quest. It describes the action of seeking something or someone, as supported by Ludwig's examples across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Wiki

12%

Science

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "are looking for" is a very common and grammatically sound verb phrase used to express an active search or quest. Ludwig AI confirms its wide applicability across diverse contexts, predominantly in News & Media, Wiki, and Scientific domains. When using the phrase, ensure correct subject-verb agreement and clearly define the subject performing the search. While alternatives like "are seeking" or "are in search of" offer more formal tones, "are looking for" remains a versatile and widely understood expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are in search of

Uses a more formal and emphatic tone to convey the act of seeking.

are trying to find

Emphasizes the effort and attempt involved in the search.

are seeking

A more concise and formal way of expressing the act of searching.

are on the lookout for

Suggests a state of alertness and vigilance while searching.

are hunting for

Implies a more active and determined search, often for something elusive.

are pursuing

Focuses on the goal-oriented nature of the search, suggesting a specific target.

are exploring options for

Indicates an investigation into different possibilities.

are investigating

Highlights a careful and methodical search, often for information or evidence.

aim to discover

Emphasizes the intention to uncover or reveal something new.

are endeavoring to locate

A very formal and somewhat archaic way of expressing the act of finding something.

FAQs

How can I use "are looking for" in a sentence?

Use "are looking for" when describing a group actively searching for something. For example, "The police are looking for the suspect" or "Researchers are looking for a cure".

What's a more formal alternative to "are looking for"?

For a more formal tone, consider using "are seeking" or "are in search of". These alternatives are suitable for professional or academic writing.

When should I use "is looking for" instead of "are looking for"?

Use "is looking for" when the subject is singular. For example, "He is looking for his keys", whereas "They are looking for their keys".

What's the difference between "are looking for" and "are searching for"?

While both phrases express the act of seeking, "are searching for" may imply a more thorough or systematic approach compared to "are looking for". However, in many contexts, they "are trying to find" interchangeable.