we are looking for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are looking for" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that you are seeking something or someone, such as in the following example: We are looking for a talented sales associate for our retail store.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

What we are looking for.

The New York Times

"We are looking for somewhere to sleep".

The Economist

We are looking for the best candidate.

Independent

It's credibility we are looking for.

The New York Times - Sports

We are looking for people.

Princeton University

"We are looking for him".

The New York Times

"We are looking for bodies".

The New York Times

We are looking for the best students.

Columbia University

"We are looking for the future.

The New York Times - Sports

What we are looking for is equality".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

That's what we are looking for.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are looking for", ensure the object of your search is clearly defined. Ambiguity can lead to confusion, so be specific about what you're seeking. For example, instead of saying "We are looking for solutions", specify "We are looking for cost-effective solutions to reduce energy consumption".

Common error

Avoid using incorrect prepositions after "looking". For example, saying "We are looking at a solution" implies evaluation, not active searching. Use "we are looking for a solution" to indicate an active search.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are looking for" functions primarily as a declarative statement indicating an ongoing search or quest. As evidenced by Ludwig, this construction is used to express a desire to find something, whether it be a tangible object, a solution, or a person.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

18%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are looking for" is a versatile and commonly used phrase to express an active search or desire. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread applicability across diverse contexts, from News & Media to Academia. While the phrase is generally neutral, it's important to ensure clarity in its usage, specifying the object of the search to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "we seek" or "we're searching for" can be used to adjust the formality or emphasis. Steer clear of incorrect preposition use and, as Ludwig suggests, be direct and specific in your writing to convey your intentions clearly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we're searching for

Uses a contraction and replaces "looking" with "searching", implying a more active and focused effort.

we're in search of

Adds emphasis to the act of searching, implying a deliberate and ongoing process.

we want to find

A more direct and straightforward way of expressing the desire to locate something.

we seek

More formal and concise, suitable for professional or academic contexts.

we are trying to locate

Emphasizes the effort being made to find something, particularly when its location is unknown.

we desire

More formal and implies a strong wish or longing for something.

we're hoping to find

Expresses a desire with an element of uncertainty, suggesting a less definite expectation.

we require

Indicates a need or necessity, often used in formal or business settings.

we aim to discover

Focuses on the intention to uncover or reveal something, often used in research or investigation.

we're hunting for

Implies a more aggressive and determined search, often for something elusive.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "we are looking for"?

You can use alternatives like "we seek", "we're searching for", or "we desire" depending on the context.

How to use "we are looking for" in a sentence?

The phrase "we are looking for" is typically followed by a noun or noun phrase that represents the object of your search. For example: "We are looking for a qualified candidate", or "We are looking for new opportunities".

Which is correct, "we are looking for" or "we look for"?

"We are looking for" implies a current, ongoing search, while "we look for" suggests a general or habitual practice. For example, "We are looking for investors" indicates an active search, whereas "We look for opportunities" suggests a continuous evaluation process.

What's the difference between "we are looking for" and "we are seeking"?

"We are looking for" is more common and informal, while "we are seeking" is more formal and often used in professional or academic contexts. Both phrases express the act of searching, but "we are seeking" can convey a more deliberate and earnest intention.