SpeakUp

Grammar fix

look for

try to find

to try to find someone or something that you need or have lost.

phrasal verbB1core

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • 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

Fix the pattern

Pattern: look for + noun/pronoun

WrongI'm looking my phone everywhere.

RightI'm looking for my phone everywhere.

'Look for' = try to find; 'look at' = direct your eyes. Don't drop 'for'.

Patternlook for + noun/pronoun

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff I am currently searching for more suitable accommodation.

Natural 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.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • look for + target
    a joba flatanswerssomeone

Don't confuse it

Do not confuse with 'look after' (to take care of) or 'look at' (to direct your eyes at something).

Try it in Daily Speak →