is looking for

USAGE SUMMARY

"is looking for" is a correct and commonly used phrase in written English.
It is typically used when discussing someone's current search or pursuit for something or someone. Example: Sarah is looking for a new job with better opportunities.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Brown is looking for work.

The New York Times - Sports

Walker is looking for it.

The New Yorker

China is looking for bargains.

The Economist

Now it is looking for a buyer.

The Economist

"Everybody is looking for a reason here".

The New York Times

"Mom is looking for more storage".

The New York Times

He is looking for a boost.

The New York Times

"The government is looking for scapegoats.

Independent

Instead, she is looking for work.

The New York Times

The coach is looking for youth.

The New York Times - Sports

The company is looking for his successor.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is looking for", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is seeking. Provide specific details to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "is looking for" in passive constructions. For example, instead of "A solution is being looked for", write "They are looking for a solution". This makes the sentence more direct and easier to understand.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is looking for" functions as a verb phrase indicating the present continuous tense of the verb "look for". It signifies an ongoing action of searching or seeking something. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various contexts, from job searches to abstract concepts like solutions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "is looking for" is a versatile and frequently used phrase that effectively conveys the act of searching or seeking. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability across various contexts, including news, academia, and business. When writing, ensure clarity by specifying the object of the search and avoiding passive voice. Alternatives like "is searching for" or "is seeking" can add nuance. With its straightforward meaning and broad acceptance, mastering the use of "is looking for" will enhance clarity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is searching for

This alternative emphasizes the act of actively seeking something or someone.

is seeking

This alternative offers a more formal tone for expressing the act of finding something, which implies more intention.

is in search of

This alternative phrase places emphasis on the state of actively pursuing finding something.

is trying to find

This alternative emphasizes the effort being made to locate or obtain something.

is hoping to discover

This alternative expresses a desire with an expectation of a positive outcome.

is aiming to locate

This alternative suggests a targeted effort to find something specific.

is endeavoring to find

This alternative is a more formal way of saying someone is trying hard to find something.

is on the lookout for

This alternative suggests actively watching for something specific to appear.

is after

This alternative is an informal way of saying that someone is pursuing something.

is fishing for

This alternative means trying to get something, but through indirect means.

FAQs

How to use "is looking for" in a sentence?

Use "is looking for" to indicate someone's current search or pursuit of something. For example: "The company "is looking for" a new CEO."

What can I say instead of "is looking for"?

You can use alternatives like "is searching for", "is seeking", or "is trying to find" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "is looking for" or "are looking for"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "is looking for" with singular subjects (e.g., "He "is looking for" a job"), and "are looking for" with plural subjects (e.g., "They "are looking for" solutions").

What's the difference between "is looking for" and "is looking at"?

"Is looking for" implies a search or pursuit, while "is looking at" means observing or examining something. For instance, "She "is looking for" her keys" (searching), versus "She "is looking at" the painting" (observing).