look up to

USAGE SUMMARY

"look up to" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe when someone admires or respects another person. For example, "He always looked up to his grandfather for his wisdom and guidance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Everyone wants someone to look up to!

WikiHow

People look up to you.

The New York Times - Sports

"We look up to him.

The New York Times - Sports

"I really look up to him.

The New York Times - Sports

"He needed men to look up to".

The New York Times

He's someone I look up to".

Independent

Who else do you look up to?

Independent

Whose work do you look up to?

The New York Times

"I look up to Elon.

The Guardian

Guys look up to him".

The New York Times - Sports

They look up to us".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "look up to", ensure the context clearly indicates who is admiring whom and why. The phrase implies a positive evaluation and aspiration.

Common error

Avoid using "look up to" when describing someone who is condescending or superior. This phrase always indicates admiration and respect from the subject towards the object.

How to use

Learn how to use "look up to" with practical examples and tips.

How to use

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "look up to" functions as a transitive verb, requiring an object to complete its meaning. It signifies the act of admiring, respecting, and often aspiring to be like someone. Ludwig's examples show its common use in expressing admiration for role models or influential figures.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Wiki

13%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "look up to" is a very common and grammatically correct expression used to convey admiration and respect for someone. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely used across various contexts, from news articles to everyday conversations. When using "look up to", ensure that the context clearly expresses admiration from the subject toward the object. It's a versatile phrase, but be mindful of its connotations and the specific message you wish to convey. For alternatives, consider words like "admire", "respect", or "idolize" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

admire

Single word expressing a feeling of respect and approval.

respect

Emphasizes the feeling of deep admiration for someone's abilities or qualities.

idolize

Suggests a level of admiration that borders on reverence.

hold in high regard

A more formal way of expressing respect and admiration.

think highly of

Indicates a positive opinion and respect for someone.

esteem

A formal term indicating respect and admiration, often for someone's character or accomplishments.

take as a role model

Focuses on emulating someone's behavior or qualities.

revere

Implies deep respect and admiration, often with a sense of awe.

draw inspiration from

Highlights the act of gaining motivation or guidance from someone.

venerate

Suggests a profound respect, often reserved for elders or those of significant stature.

FAQs

How do I use "look up to" in a sentence?

Use "look up to" to describe admiring or respecting someone. For example, "Children often "look up to" their parents or other influential figures."

What's the difference between "look up to" and "admire"?

"Look up to" implies a sense of aspiration and respect, while "admire" simply means to regard with approval or respect. "Look up to" often suggests wanting to emulate the person.

What can I say instead of "look up to"?

You can use alternatives like "respect", "admire", or "idolize" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "I am looking up to" someone?

Yes, "I am looking up to" someone is grammatically correct. It's the present continuous tense, indicating that you currently admire or respect that person.