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Grammar fix

look over

examine quickly

To quickly check or review something, usually to find mistakes or get a general idea.

phrasal verbB1common

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

  • I need to look over my essay before I hand it in.study
  • Before the exam, I always look over my notes to refresh my memory.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: look over + noun

WrongCan you look over of my essay?

RightCan you look over my essay?

'Look over + thing' directly — no 'of'.

Patternlook over + noun

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff Could you briefly peruse my report before I submit it?

Natural Could you look over my report before I send it?

'Look over' is the natural verb for a quick check. 'Peruse' actually means read carefully (and sounds pompous).

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

  • look over
    my essaythe contractthe figuresit quickly

Don't confuse it

'Look over' means to check quickly, while 'go over' can mean to check in more detail.

Try it in Daily Speak →