looking for that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looking for that" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a search or desire for something specific. Example: "I have been looking for that book you recommended."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

So, I'm looking for that.

The New York Times

But you aren't looking for that.

The New York Times - Sports

If they're looking for that.

The New York Times - Magazine

I was looking for that.

The New York Times

And most grown-up audiences probably aren't looking for that.

The New York Times

At my age, you're not looking for that.

The New Yorker

You're looking for that.

Forbes

You know, we're looking for that.

Huffington Post

They're not even looking for that.

Huffington Post

No, I wasn't looking for that.

Huffington Post

The interviewer isn't looking for that.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looking for that" to express a direct and active search for something, whether it's a physical object, an abstract concept, or a specific outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "looking for that" when describing a passive state or condition. Instead, use phrases like "hoping for that" or "expecting that" to convey a sense of anticipation rather than active searching.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking for that" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a present participle construction, indicating an ongoing action of searching. Ludwig's examples show its adaptability in various contexts, from seeking reassurance to finding a solution.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "looking for that" is a grammatically correct and widely used verb phrase that indicates an active search for something specific. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's commonly found in news and media, as well as in more informal contexts like wikis. While generally neutral in register, it effectively conveys an intent to find or obtain something. For more formal situations, alternatives such as "seeking that" or "searching for that" may be appropriate. Remember to use "looking for that" when describing an active search, and avoid it in passive contexts. The abundance of examples highlights its versatility and common usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seeking that

Focuses on the act of seeking, which is a more formal alternative to looking.

searching for that

Emphasizes a more thorough and deliberate search.

in search of that

Highlights the purpose of the search.

trying to find that

Indicates an attempt to locate something.

attempting to locate that

A more formal version of trying to find.

pursuing that

Suggests a determined effort to obtain something.

aiming for that

Emphasizes a goal or objective.

hoping for that

Expresses a desire or wish for something to happen or be found.

desiring that

A more formal way of expressing a wish or want.

wanting that

A simple and direct way of expressing a desire.

FAQs

What does "looking for that" mean?

The phrase "looking for that" means actively searching or seeking something specific. It implies a directed effort to find or obtain something you desire.

How can I use "looking for that" in a sentence?

You can use "looking for that" to describe a search for a tangible item, like "I'm "looking for that" lost key", or an abstract concept, such as "We're "looking for that" perfect solution".

Are there more formal alternatives to "looking for that"?

Yes, you can use phrases like "seeking that", "searching for that", or "in search of that" for more formal contexts.

How does "looking for that" differ from "hoping for that"?

"Looking for that" implies an active search, while "hoping for that" suggests a passive desire or wish for something to happen without necessarily taking action.