look forward to returning

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "look forward to returning" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing anticipation or eagerness to go back to a place or situation. Example: "I look forward to returning to my hometown for the holidays."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I look forward to returning next year.

The New York Times

"We look forward to returning to our normal routines".

The New York Times

I look forward to returning with zest in due course".

The Guardian - Sport

I look forward to returning with my grandchildren.

The New York Times

I enjoyed it, but I look forward to returning whence I came".

The New York Times

I look forward to returning to the courts as soon as possible".

The New York Times - Sports

"I was looking forward to competing in Montreal and I look forward to returning soon".

The Guardian - Sport

Carroll, a gym teacher, can now look forward to returning to school today.

The Guardian - Sport

The pair said in a statement: We look forward to returning to Cannes this year.

The Guardian - Film

"We look forward to returning to bargaining on Tuesday," Mr. Young wrote.

The New York Times

These recommendations made our stay in Lisbon a very memorable one and we look forward to returning.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Remember that "look forward to" is typically followed by a gerund (verb + -ing), so ensure you are using the correct grammatical form.

Common error

Avoid using incorrect prepositions such as "look forward to return". The correct form is "look forward to returning", where "returning" functions as a gerund.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look forward to returning" functions as a verbal phrase expressing anticipation or expectation. It is commonly used to convey a positive sentiment about a future event, indicating that the speaker or writer is eagerly awaiting a return to a specific place, activity, or situation. Ludwig AI confirms the grammatical correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "look forward to returning" is a grammatically sound and highly versatile expression used to convey positive anticipation for a future return. According to Ludwig, it’s considered correct and suitable for various writing contexts. Its primary function is to express enthusiasm, and it's frequently used in news, business, and even slightly more formal settings. While alternatives like "am eager to return" or "can't wait to return" exist, "look forward to returning" strikes a balance between formality and enthusiasm, making it a solid choice for expressing your positive expectations. Remember to pair "look forward to" with a gerund, not an infinitive, to ensure grammatical accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Look forward to coming back

Uses "coming back" for a slightly less formal tone.

Am eager to return

Highlights enthusiasm with the use of adjective "eager".

Am excited to return

Emphasizes excitement about the return.

Am looking forward to the return

Nominalizes "returning", shifting focus slightly.

Anticipate returning

Focuses on expectation rather than active eagerness.

Can't wait to return

Expresses impatience and strong anticipation.

Welcome the opportunity to return

Highlights a positive reception of the chance to return.

Await returning

Implies a more passive waiting for the return.

Reiterate my desire to return

Re-emphasizes a previous expression of wanting to return.

Expect to return

Indicates a high degree of certainty about returning.

FAQs

What does "look forward to returning" mean?

It means you are anticipating a future return with pleasure or excitement. It's a polite and enthusiastic way of saying you expect to go back to a place or activity and are happy about it.

How to use "look forward to returning" in a sentence?

You can use it like this: "I "look forward to returning" to the office after my vacation." or "They "look forward to returning" to their favorite restaurant."

What can I say instead of "look forward to returning"?

You can use alternatives like "am eager to return", "am excited to return", or "can't wait to return" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "looking forward to return"?

No, it is not correct. "Looking forward to" is followed by a gerund (verb + -ing) or a noun. The correct phrase is "looking forward to returning".