kind of looking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "kind of looking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to express a vague or uncertain perception or impression about something or someone. Example: "She was kind of looking at me like she knew something I didn't."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We're just kind of looking at stuff".

Independent

I'm kind of looking forward to it".

The New York Times - Sports

They demand a careful kind of looking.

The New York Times - Arts

"We are kind of looking for offense.

The New York Times - Sports

"I'm kind of looking for thrills, honestly.

The Guardian

"They're kind of looking after their own".

The New York Times - Sports

It's that blend I'm really kind of looking for.

The New Yorker

"Everybody is kind of looking out," she said.

The New York Times

"We're kind of looking ahead now to winter wheat planting".

The New York Times

So it's kind of looking like what I had before.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"Actually, I'm kind of looking forward to this change.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "kind of looking" to express tentativeness or uncertainty in observations. For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "somewhat examining" or "vaguely inspecting".

Common error

Avoid using "kind of looking" excessively in professional or academic writing. Over-reliance on this phrase can make your writing sound less confident and precise. Opt for stronger, more direct verbs to convey your observations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "kind of looking" functions as a qualifier, softening the action of "looking". It suggests a degree of tentativeness or imprecision in the observation. Ludwig AI's analysis reveals that it is commonly used to express a vague or uncertain perception.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Academia

27%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Science

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "kind of looking" is a common and acceptable phrase used to express a tentative or imprecise observation. Ludwig AI's analysis of numerous examples from diverse sources, including news outlets and academic papers, confirms its widespread use. While the phrase is appropriate in most informal contexts, writers should opt for more precise and direct language in formal or professional settings. Related phrases like ""sort of observing"" and ""casually glancing"" can be used as alternatives to add variety to your writing. Overall, "kind of looking" is a versatile phrase that can be used effectively when a degree of tentativeness or uncertainty is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sort of observing

Replaces "looking" with "observing", implying a more detached and analytical viewpoint, and replaces "kind of" with the more informal "sort of".

somewhat searching

Emphasizes the act of searching rather than simply looking, suggesting a more active pursuit. Uses "somewhat" for a slightly more formal tone.

in a way, examining

Presents a more deliberate sense of examination, with an added phrase indicating the manner.

vaguely inspecting

Suggests a casual and unfocused inspection process, emphasizing the lack of precision.

casually glancing

Highlights the casual nature of the look, focusing on a brief and undirected gaze.

loosely monitoring

Implies a relaxed form of monitoring without intensive focus, broadening the scope from a single "look".

partially viewing

Focuses on the partial or incomplete nature of the viewing experience, adding a dimension of scope.

in some respects, seeing

Introduces a conditional element to the act of seeing, suggesting a limited or contextual perspective.

after a fashion, scrutinizing

Suggests scrutinization is happening but not thoroughly and is slightly old-fashioned in tone.

tangentially considering

Indicates that the consideration is not central, only touching on the subject lightly.

FAQs

How can I use "kind of looking" in a sentence?

You can use "kind of looking" to express a tentative or uncertain observation, such as, "He was "kind of looking" around nervously" or "They are "kind of looking" for a new apartment."

What can I say instead of "kind of looking"?

You can use alternatives like "sort of observing", "somewhat searching", or "casually glancing", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "kind of looking"?

"Kind of looking" is suitable in informal contexts where you want to express a vague or tentative observation. It's often used in conversational settings or less formal writing. In more formal contexts, consider using more precise language.

What is the difference between "kind of looking" and "sort of looking"?

The phrases "kind of looking" and "sort of looking" are largely interchangeable and have similar meanings. Both express a tentative or imprecise observation. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference or regional dialect.