look closely for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "look closely for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when instructing someone to examine something carefully or pay attention to specific details. Example: "When you read the report, look closely for any discrepancies in the data."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

33 human-written examples

Look closely, for this is a typeface under attack.

The Guardian - Opinion

Astronomers are expected to look closely for evidence of carbon dioxide, water vapor, ozone and methane.

The New York Times

They need to look closely, for it is obvious that things happened that should not have happened.

The New York Times

Among other things Mr. Fiengo taught me: Look closely for objects that could hit the chain on the other side of a cut.

The New York Times

(Driving west, you need to look closely for little openings in the trees where there are white signs that say "Conservation Area").

The New York Times - Travel

Not knowing which are which, you look closely for clues and, more generally, ponder what photography hids and what it reveals (Johnson).

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

27 human-written examples

I had never looked closely for a long period at a dying person.

The New York Times

The federal government, it turned out, was looking closely for evidence that each state's application was supported widely by its teachers' unions and districts.

The New York Times

Charles McMillion, the president and chief economist of MBG Information Services in Washington, is an expert on employment and has been looking closely for years at the issue of labor force participation.

The New York Times

As these were Mr Bush's first economic speeches since the Democrats took control of Congress, Washington's commentariat was looking closely for any signs of compromise.The timing was perfect.

The Economist

One, David Patrick Kelly, plays a widow (the mother of the young girl's dead husband) with such wicked conviction that you may find yourself checking the program more than once and looking closely for his Adam's apple.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "look closely for", ensure that the object of the search is clearly defined to provide context and direction for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "look closely for" excessively in a single piece of writing. Vary your language by using synonyms like "examine carefully for" or "search meticulously for" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look closely for" primarily functions as an imperative verb phrase, used to instruct or advise someone to examine something with attention to detail. It's often used to highlight the importance of careful observation, as evidenced by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

32%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

4%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "look closely for" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, employed to instruct or advise careful examination. Its versatility allows it to fit seamlessly into various contexts, spanning from news and media to scientific research and general instructions. While it is a common expression, it's essential to avoid overuse and consider synonyms such as "examine carefully for" or "inspect thoroughly for" to maintain writing quality. Remember, the key to effective communication with "look closely for" is to clearly define what the reader should be observing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

examine carefully for

Replaces "look" with a more formal verb, focusing on detailed inspection.

search meticulously for

Emphasizes a thorough and detailed search.

inspect thoroughly for

Similar to "examine carefully", but highlights a complete inspection.

watch attentively for

Focuses on careful observation over time.

be vigilant for

Highlights the need for alertness and caution while searching.

keep a sharp lookout for

More informal, suggesting a watchful search.

pay close attention to

Shifts the focus to attending to details, rather than active searching.

scrutinize carefully for

Implies a critical and detailed examination.

investigate thoroughly for

Suggests a more formal and in-depth inquiry.

probe deeply for

Indicates a thorough exploration in search of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "look closely for" to instruct someone to carefully examine something or search for specific details. For example, "When reviewing the data, "look closely for" any inconsistencies".

What are some alternatives to "look closely for"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "examine carefully for", "search meticulously for", or "inspect thoroughly for".

Is there a difference between "look closely for" and "look carefully for"?

"Look closely for" and "look carefully for" are very similar in meaning and can often be used interchangeably. However, "look closely for" might suggest a more detailed or intimate examination, while "look carefully for" emphasizes general attentiveness.

When is it appropriate to use "look closely for" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "look closely for" when you want to emphasize the importance of careful and detailed observation in order to find something specific. It works well in instructions, guides, and analytical contexts.