look here

USAGE SUMMARY

'look here' is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use the phrase 'look here' as a way to draw someone's attention to something, often when you want to give them some advice or make a request. For example: "Jane, look here - I'm sure you can finish that report by tomorrow if you put in some extra effort."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"Look here.

The New Yorker

(Look here and here).

The New York Times

Take a look here.

The Economist

Look up! Look here!

The New York Times

"Look here," said Borges.

The New Yorker

But look here, Ozzy.

The Guardian

"Look here, I can't.

The Guardian - Books

Now look here, Tim.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Look, here we are.

The New Yorker

"Look here," Angela said.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

You can have a look here: Constellation.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "look here" to add emphasis or urgency to your speech, particularly when you need someone to pay close attention or consider your point of view.

Common error

Avoid using "look here" in highly formal writing or presentations; it can come across as too informal or even confrontational. Opt for more neutral phrases to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "look here" is as an interjection, used to capture the listener's attention or to introduce a statement with emphasis. As confirmed by Ludwig, it serves to draw attention.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "look here" functions as an informal interjection used to grab attention and emphasize a point. According to Ludwig, it's typically employed in spoken language or informal writing. The phrase is very common in news and media, but should be used cautiously in formal or professional contexts to avoid sounding too assertive. Related phrases like "listen up" or "pay attention" can serve as alternatives depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

check this out

This phrase invites someone to examine or observe something, similar to directing their gaze or attention.

listen up

This alternative is an imperative, urging the listener to pay attention, similar to drawing attention.

pay attention

This phrase directly requests attentiveness, mirroring the intent of "look here" in certain contexts.

take note

This alternative advises the listener to remember or consider something important, akin to highlighting a crucial point.

observe this

This alternative formally requests observation, highlighting the importance of visual attention.

hear me out

This phrase implores the listener to listen to the speaker's full explanation, emphasizing the importance of their words.

consider this

This phrase prompts thoughtful evaluation, aligning with the purpose of drawing attention to a significant point.

get this

This alternative introduces surprising or important information, aiming to capture the listener's interest.

mark my words

This alternative emphasizes the speaker's certainty and urges the listener to remember their prediction or warning.

behold

This alternative is an archaic term that dramatically calls attention to something.

FAQs

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

"Look here" is often used to get someone's attention before making a point or giving advice. For instance, "Look here, I think you're making a mistake."

What are some alternatives to "look here"?

Depending on the context, you might use alternatives such as "listen up", "pay attention", or "consider this".

Is "look here" considered formal or informal?

"Look here" is generally considered informal. It's best used in casual conversations or when trying to emphasize a point assertively. More formal situations may require a different phrase.

When is it appropriate to use "look here"?

It's appropriate to use "look here" when you want to directly and perhaps somewhat forcefully draw someone's attention to what you're about to say. Be mindful of the tone, as it can be perceived as assertive or even confrontational.