look for — try to find
phrasal verbB1IELTS 5+neutralcore
to try to find someone or something that you need or have lost.
Say it like a native
Textbook I am currently searching for more suitable accommodation.
Native I'm looking for a better place.
'Look for' is the default for trying to find something. 'Searching for suitable accommodation' is heavier and reads like an ad.
Pattern: look for + noun/pronoun
In use
- I’m looking for my keys—have you seen them anywhere?daily life
- In my opinion, when people look for a new job, they should consider both salary and work-life balance.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ I'm looking my phone everywhere.
✓ I'm looking for my phone everywhere.
'Look for' = try to find; 'look at' = direct your eyes. Don't drop 'for'.
Common collocations
look for + target— a job, a flat, answers, someone
Don't confuse it
Do not confuse with 'look after' (to take care of) or 'look at' (to direct your eyes at something).