looking hard enough

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "looking hard enough" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when suggesting that someone may find something if they put in sufficient effort or attention. Example: "If you keep searching and looking hard enough, you'll eventually find the answer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Am I looking hard enough for it?

Harvard University

The doctors simply weren't looking hard enough, they felt.

The New Yorker

Or were they just not looking hard enough?

Independent

You obviously weren't looking hard enough," he laughed.

The Guardian - Travel

If it seems otherwise, you're not looking hard enough or without blinkers.

The New York Times - Arts

If you've ever doubted that we're capable of great things, you're simply not looking hard enough.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

"I didn't look hard enough".

The New York Times

We didn't look hard enough.

The New Yorker

They haven't really looked hard enough".

The Guardian - Arts

You just have to look hard enough.

The Guardian - Opinion

I just hadn't looked hard enough".

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "looking hard enough", ensure the context clearly indicates what the subject is searching for and why the effort is significant. For example, "If you're "looking hard enough", you'll find opportunities for growth within your current role."

Common error

Avoid using "looking hard enough" in situations where success is guaranteed or the search is trivial. For instance, saying "If you're "looking hard enough", you'll find air to breathe" is redundant and lacks impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking hard enough" functions as an adverbial modifier, typically used to qualify a verb and express the conditions under which something can be found or achieved. According to Ludwig, this phrase is correct and usable in written English, suggesting effort and persistence in a search.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "looking hard enough" is a grammatically correct and commonly used adverbial modifier that emphasizes the importance of effort in finding something. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It's most frequently found in news and media contexts but is also acceptable in academic and professional settings. When using the phrase, it's important to provide clear context about what is being searched for and why the effort is significant. Consider alternatives like "searching diligently" or "examining closely" for more formal tones. Avoid using it in situations where the outcome is guaranteed, as that diminishes its impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

searching diligently

Focuses on the thoroughness and care taken in the search.

examining closely

Emphasizes a detailed and careful inspection.

investigating thoroughly

Highlights a comprehensive and systematic inquiry.

probing deeply

Suggests an attempt to uncover hidden or less obvious information.

exploring exhaustively

Implies a complete and thorough investigation, leaving no stone unturned.

digging meticulously

Focuses on the careful and detailed nature of the search or investigation.

scouting extensively

Implies a broad and comprehensive search over a wide area.

researching comprehensively

Highlights the thoroughness and breadth of the research effort.

scrutinizing carefully

Emphasizes a critical and detailed examination.

pursuing relentlessly

Suggests a persistent and determined effort in the search.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "looking hard enough" to sound more formal?

In formal contexts, consider alternatives such as "investigating thoroughly", "examining closely", or "researching comprehensively". These options convey diligence and detail in a more professional manner.

Is it always appropriate to use the phrase "looking hard enough"?

While generally acceptable, "looking hard enough" may not be suitable for highly formal or technical contexts. It's best used when you want to emphasize the effort required in finding something, rather than the technical process of the search itself.

What does it imply when someone says "you're not looking hard enough"?

It typically suggests that the person believes you haven't dedicated sufficient effort or attention to a search or investigation, implying that the desired outcome is achievable with more diligence.

Which is more appropriate, "looking hard enough" or "looking carefully enough"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "looking carefully enough" emphasizes the precision and attention to detail, while "looking hard enough" emphasizes the amount of effort or persistence involved. Choose the one that best fits the intended meaning.