looking forward to locking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looking forward to locking" is not correct in standard written English as it lacks clarity and context.
It can be used when expressing anticipation for an event or action that involves "locking," but it needs additional context to be meaningful. Example: "I am looking forward to locking the deal with our new partner next week."

⚠ May contain grammatical issues

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

And Locke is looking forward to locking horns with a man who has had a great influence on him throughout his career.

BBC

The Middlesbrough midfielder George Boateng says he is looking forward to locking horns with a potential England World Cup opponent for the second time in a week.

The Guardian - Sport

"I really admire him and I'm looking forward to locking horns with him".

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

And were all those Creekers really looking forward to trying to figure out yet another locked-room mystery?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But influential lock Jones, 25, is looking forward to helping the Ospreys challenge for honours.

BBC

Some anglers have a week or two on the river locked in on their calendars and spend the rest of the year looking forward to the trip.

The New York Times - Sports

"Really looking forward to Nashville.

The New York Times

Sure looking forward to Tampa.

The New York Times

But I'm looking forward to learning.

The New York Times

I'm looking forward to new adventures.

Independent

I am looking forward to the chat.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "looking forward to", ensure the subsequent verb clearly communicates the intended meaning. For greater clarity, consider rewording to a more specific action, such as "securing" or "finalizing".

Common error

Avoid using "looking forward to" with verbs like "locking" that can be ambiguous. Instead, clarify the anticipated outcome. For example, instead of "looking forward to locking", specify "looking forward to securing the agreement."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking forward to locking" functions as an expression of anticipation, yet its grammatical correctness is questionable. As Ludwig AI points out, the phrase needs more context to be meaningful. The examples found in Ludwig indicate a usage that, while present, is not always the most conventional or clear.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "looking forward to locking" is a grammatically questionable expression used to convey anticipation, but Ludwig AI explains it lacks clarity without additional context. Its use is relatively rare, primarily appearing in news media. For enhanced clarity, consider alternatives like "eager to secure" or "excited about finalizing", tailoring the phrase to the specific context. To avoid ambiguity, it's advisable to use clearer, more direct language, especially in professional or formal settings. Therefore, ensure the verb choice is specific to avoid vagueness and improve communication effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

anticipating locking

Focuses on the act of anticipation regarding the locking action itself.

eager to secure

Emphasizes the desire to firmly establish or protect something.

excited about finalizing

Highlights enthusiasm for completing or concluding a process.

awaiting the moment of securing

Expresses the expectation and waiting for the action of making something safe.

keen to fasten

Implies a strong interest in attaching or connecting something securely.

anxious to latch

Expresses a sense of urgency or nervousness about securing something quickly.

wanting to ensure closure

Highlights a desire to bring something to a complete and secure end.

ready to bolt

Suggests preparedness and anticipation for fastening something firmly.

longing to clamp

Implies a deep desire to attach or hold something tightly.

yearning to padlock

Expresses a strong desire to secure something with a padlock, often implying a sense of protection or restriction.

FAQs

How can I use "looking forward to" correctly?

Ensure the phrase is followed by a clear and specific verb that accurately conveys the intended action or event. For example, "I'm looking forward to the meeting" is more precise than "I'm looking forward to processing."

What can I say instead of "looking forward to locking"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "eager to secure", "excited about finalizing", or "anticipating locking". Choose the phrase that best reflects your intended meaning.

Is it correct to use "looking forward to" with any verb?

While grammatically acceptable, using "looking forward to" with vague or ambiguous verbs can reduce clarity. Always ensure the verb provides enough context to understand what you're anticipating.

How does "looking forward to locking" differ from "anticipating securing"?

"Looking forward to locking" can sound awkward if the context isn't clear. "Anticipating securing" is a stronger and more direct way to express the expectation of making something safe or firm.