looked on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looked on" is correct and can be used in written English.
It means to observe something without taking an active part in it. For example, "She looked on in amazement as the magician performed the trick".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Britain looked on, powerless.

The New York Times

The crowd looked on, nonplussed.

Independent

An assistant looked on helplessly.

The New Yorker

His audience looked on, hypnotized.

The New Yorker

Krajicek looked on helplessly.

The New York Times - Sports

The great European powers looked on anxiously.

The Economist

We had a cosmic bond.

Vice

150 spectators looked on.

The New Yorker

Several soldiers looked on.

The New York Times

J. Risteen looked on.

The New York Times

Phelps looked on in disbelief.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looked on" when you want to emphasize the act of observing without participating or intervening. For example, "The crowd "looked on" as the tightrope walker crossed the canyon."

Common error

Avoid using "looked on" when you want to convey active participation or intervention. If someone is actively helping or involved, use verbs like "assisted", "supported", or "participated" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looked on" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, indicating the act of observing something without participating or intervening. This is supported by Ludwig, which recognizes its correct usage in numerous examples. It often emphasizes a passive role of the observer.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Wiki

14%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "looked on" correctly describes observing without intervening. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness. While it's a common expression, the term has a neutral tone which is frequently seen in News & Media. When writing, remember that using "looked on" emphasizes a passive observational role. For alternatives, you could use "observed" or "watched" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

observed

This alternative is a more formal and concise synonym for "looked on", suitable for professional or academic writing.

watched

This alternative is a general term for seeing something, similar to "looked on" but without necessarily implying inaction.

witnessed

This alternative suggests that the observer was present at a significant or noteworthy event.

stood by

This alternative implies a passive observation, often with a negative connotation of not intervening in a situation.

beheld

This alternative is a more archaic and literary term for seeing, carrying a sense of wonder or awe.

gazed at

This alternative suggests a prolonged and intent observation, often with a sense of fascination or admiration.

contemplated

This alternative implies a thoughtful observation, focusing on understanding and analyzing the situation.

scrutinized

This alternative conveys a detailed and critical observation, carefully examining the details of something.

perused

This alternative suggests reading or examining something carefully, often in order to find something.

taken in

This alternative suggests absorbing or fully understanding what is being observed, implying a deeper level of engagement.

FAQs

What does "looked on" mean?

"Looked on" means to observe something without getting involved or taking part.

How can I use "looked on" in a sentence?

You can say, "The audience "looked on" in silence as the play unfolded".

What are some alternatives to "looked on"?

Some alternatives are "observed", "watched", or "witnessed", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "looked on" or should I use another phrase?

"Looked on" is perfectly correct and commonly used. Its appropriateness depends on the context and the nuance you wish to convey.