look around for

USAGE SUMMARY

"look around for" is correct and is commonly used in written English.
It is often used as part of a longer phrase or sentence. For example, "Be sure to look around for any helpful information."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I look around for the nearest exit.

The New York Times

He didn't look around for the husband.

The New Yorker

We look around for the latest.

The Guardian

I look around for the cocktail cabinet.

The Guardian - Travel

"Some people might want to look around for other options".

The New York Times

People are going to look around for options.

The New York Times

You look around for your serviceman.

BBC

We look around for blame.

Huffington Post

Look around for venues.

WikiHow

Look around for cops.

WikiHow

Look around for materials.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "look around for" when you want to suggest a general search in the immediate environment or context. It implies a less focused and more exploratory approach.

Common error

Avoid replacing "look around for" with overly formal alternatives like "endeavor to locate" in casual contexts. This can make your writing sound unnatural and pretentious.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look around for" functions as a phrasal verb indicating an action of searching or seeking something in a general or exploratory manner. Ludwig AI highlights its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

57%

News & Media

41%

Science

1%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "look around for" is a common and grammatically sound phrasal verb used to describe a general or exploratory search. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and frequent usage across various contexts, particularly in Wiki and News & Media sources. While it is generally considered informal, it's acceptable in neutral settings. When writing, consider using synonyms like "search for" or "seek out" for a more formal tone, and avoid overly formal alternatives in casual contexts. Remember that "look around for" suggests a less focused search compared to "search for".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

search for

Focuses on the action of actively seeking something.

seek out

Implies a more deliberate and focused search.

try to find

Highlights the attempt or effort in locating something.

hunt for

Suggests a more intensive and persistent search.

scout for

Implies searching with the intention of gathering information or resources.

be on the lookout for

Emphasizes vigilance and anticipation in the search.

explore for

Suggests a broader, more exploratory search.

investigate for

Implies a systematic and detailed search.

check for

Focuses on verifying the presence or absence of something.

rummage around for

Suggests a less organized, more haphazard search.

FAQs

How can I use "look around for" in a sentence?

You can use "look around for" when you are suggesting a general search. For example, "I'm going to "look around for" a new restaurant in the neighborhood".

What is a good substitute for "look around for"?

Alternatives to "look around for" include "search for", "seek out", or "try to find", depending on the specific context.

Is it better to say "search for" or "look around for"?

"Search for" implies a more focused and deliberate action, while "look around for" suggests a more general and exploratory search. The best choice depends on the context and your intended meaning.

What does "look around for" imply?

"Look around for" implies a less focused and more exploratory approach to searching, often suggesting a search within the immediate environment or context.