look across

USAGE SUMMARY

"look across" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in the context of direction or observation, or to refer to something that is being perceived on the opposite side of a view. For example, "He looked across the room and saw the sad expressions on his friends' faces."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Look across the street.

The New Yorker

Look across the Atlantic.

Independent

I look across street.

The New Yorker

Look across adjacent industries.

Harvard Business Review

I look across Glenfarne.

The Guardian - Travel

Look across the networks.

The Washington Post

I look across the park.

The New Yorker

I look across at Amanda.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I look across the street.

The New Yorker

Everything had to look across the Atlantic.

The New York Times

We need strategies that look across the life course.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "look across" to suggest considering a broader context or a different perspective. For example, "Look across different industries to find innovative solutions."

Common error

Avoid using "look across" when a more specific verb like "see", "observe", or "examine" would provide greater clarity and precision. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound vague.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look across" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often used to indicate a visual direction or a conceptual comparison. It directs attention to something situated on the other side of a space or a spectrum of ideas. Ludwig provides numerous examples of this usage in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "look across" is a versatile verb phrase that commonly directs attention to something visually or conceptually distant. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media. While its register is generally neutral, it's essential to consider context to determine if a more precise verb would be more effective. Remember to use "look across" when you want to encourage a broader perspective or comparison, but avoid overuse to maintain clarity and impact in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gaze over

Implies a sustained and focused observation from a distance.

survey the landscape

Refers to a broad examination of a wide area or situation.

scan the horizon

Suggests a deliberate search across a distant view.

observe from afar

Indicates watching something from a considerable distance.

cast your eyes over

Suggests a quick or casual glance.

take a broader view

Implies considering a wider perspective or scope.

consider from all angles

Emphasizes a thorough and comprehensive evaluation.

examine the situation

Indicates a detailed investigation of circumstances.

assess the panorama

Refers to evaluating a wide and comprehensive view.

review the entirety

Suggests a complete overview and analysis.

FAQs

How can I use "look across" in a sentence?

You can use "look across" to describe physically looking towards something or figuratively considering multiple aspects. For example, "I "look across" the street" or "We need to "look across" all departments to solve this issue."

What phrases are similar to "look across"?

Similar phrases include "gaze over", "survey the landscape", or "scan the horizon". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it always appropriate to use "look across" in formal writing?

While generally acceptable, consider whether a more precise or formal verb might be more suitable in certain contexts. For instance, "analyze", "review", or "consider" may sometimes be preferable depending on the intended meaning.

How does "look across" differ from simply "look at"?

"Look at" implies a direct focus on a specific object, while "look across" often suggests a broader view or comparison. For example, "look at this report" versus ""look across" all the reports to find a trend".