we are still looking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are still looking" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating that you are in the process of searching for something or someone and have not yet found it. Example: "Thank you for your patience. We are still looking for the best candidates to fill the position."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

But he said: "We are still looking.

Independent

We are still looking into it".

Independent

"We are still looking at Leith.

The New Yorker

"We are still looking at it".

The New York Times

We are still looking for their descendants.

The Guardian

"We are still looking," Bilic said.

The Guardian - Sport

"We are still looking at very low rates historically".

The New York Times

"We are still looking for the mistake," Schaaf commented acidly.

The Guardian - Sport

"We are still looking for other individuals involved," he said.

The New York Times

We are still looking into the details of the situation".

The Guardian

"We are still looking for it," Akshay Thusu said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "we are still looking", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being sought. Be specific to avoid ambiguity. For instance, instead of saying, "We are still looking", say, "We are still looking for a qualified candidate for the position".

Common error

Avoid using "we are still looking" without specifying what you are looking for. This can leave your audience confused. Always clarify the target of your search immediately after or within the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are still looking" primarily functions as a declarative statement indicating an ongoing search or investigation. As Ludwig AI indicates, this phrase is commonly used across various contexts to convey that a process of finding something has not yet concluded.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we are still looking" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate that a search, investigation, or consideration is ongoing. As Ludwig AI notes, its versatility allows for use across diverse contexts, from news reports to business updates. While generally neutral in register, formality can be adjusted with synonyms. The phrase's primary function is to provide updates, manage expectations, and inform audiences that a resolution is yet to be achieved. To ensure clarity, it's best practice to clearly specify the target of the search immediately following the phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are still searching

A direct synonym, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the search.

we are continuing to search

Emphasizes the act of searching is ongoing.

we are yet to find

Highlights the lack of success in finding something.

we haven't stopped looking

Emphasizes the persistence and determination in the search.

we are still investigating

Focuses on an ongoing investigation or inquiry.

we are still examining

Highlights the continuous examination of something.

the search continues

A more concise and formal way to express the ongoing search.

we are still considering

Indicates an ongoing evaluation or deliberation.

we are in the process of finding

Highlights that the process of looking is currently taking place.

our search is ongoing

Formal phrasing that highlights the ongoing state of the search.

FAQs

What does "we are still looking" mean?

The phrase "we are still looking" indicates that a search, investigation, or consideration is ongoing and has not yet reached a conclusion. It implies persistence and a lack of immediate resolution.

How can I use "we are still looking" in a sentence?

You can use "we are still looking" to express that you are actively searching for something, such as "We are still looking for the missing documents" or "We are still looking into the cause of the error".

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

You can use alternatives like "we are still searching", "we are yet to find", or "the search continues depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "we are still looking" in formal communication?

Yes, "we are still looking" is appropriate in formal communication, especially when providing updates on ongoing investigations or searches. However, consider using more formal alternatives like "we are still investigating" for greater emphasis on professionalism.