looking around

USAGE SUMMARY

"looking around" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the physical act of searching by moving your eyes around a location. For example: She nervously looked around the room, hoping to find a place to hide.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I was looking around".

The New Yorker

He's always looking around".

The New York Times

They just stay in there looking around".

The New York Times

Surely other banks are looking around too.

The Economist

I was looking around and saying, whoa.

The New York Times

"You can tell he's looking around".

The New York Times

"I remember looking around," she said.

The New York Times

So I'm not looking around".

The Guardian

"Looks like he's looking around," Ed said.

The New Yorker

Start looking around immediately.

Science Magazine

If it's not, it's looking around".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "looking around", consider the specific context. Is it a casual observation, a focused search, or a sign of nervousness? Choose words that amplify the tone and purpose.

Common error

Don't use "looking around" as a filler phrase. Ensure it adds specific information about the character's actions or state of mind. For example, instead of "he was just looking around", try "he was looking around nervously, as if expecting someone".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking around" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, indicating the action of visually exploring one's surroundings. It is frequently used to describe the act of searching, observing, or simply being aware of the environment. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "looking around" is a versatile phrasal verb commonly used to describe the act of visually exploring one's surroundings. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound and widely applicable in various contexts, particularly in News & Media. While generally neutral to informal in register, its precise meaning can shift based on context – from casual observation to a focused search. When using "looking around", consider alternatives like "surveying the area" for a more comprehensive examination, or "observing the environment" for a broader perspective. However, always ensure it adds specific value to your writing, avoiding vague or filler usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

taking stock of surroundings

Emphasizes careful observation and consideration of the immediate environment.

surveying the area

Emphasizes a comprehensive examination of a specific space or region.

observing the environment

Focuses on the action of watching and perceiving the surrounding area.

exploring the vicinity

Highlights the act of actively discovering and examining nearby surroundings.

scouting the location

Suggests a preliminary exploration to gather information or assess suitability.

checking the perimeter

Focuses on examining the outer boundary or edge of a space.

inspecting the premises

Implies a formal or official examination of a property or location.

assessing the situation

Shifts the focus to evaluating circumstances rather than physical space.

scrutinizing the scene

Emphasizes a detailed and critical examination of a specific place.

sizing up the place

Implies a quick assessment of the general characteristics or atmosphere of a location.

FAQs

How can I use "looking around" in a sentence?

"Looking around" can describe a casual observation, a search for something, or a state of unease. For instance, "She was "looking around for her keys"" or "He was "looking around nervously"".

What are some alternatives to "looking around"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "surveying the area", "observing the environment", or "inspecting the premises".

Is "looking around" formal or informal?

"Looking around" is generally considered a neutral to informal phrase. In more formal contexts, consider using more precise language like "examining the area".

What does "looking around" imply?

"Looking around" suggests an act of observation or exploration within a specific area. It can also imply curiosity, searching, or even a lack of focus, depending on the context.