Differences between go around and look around
Go around usually means to move from one place to another, often in a circular or indirect way, whereas look around generally means to explore or examine a place or area.
Meanings and Definitions: go around vs look around
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Go around
- 1Circulate.
A rumour is GOING AROUND about the Attorney General.
- 2Be or have enough of something.
There aren't enough jobs to GO AROUND for the numbers of people graduating nowadays.
- 3Visit.
I WENT AROUND for dinner at their house.
Look around
- 1To explore or examine a place.
Do you want to look around the school?
- 2To search or explore.
We’ve started looking around for a house in Manchester.
Usage Examples: go around, look around in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
go around
Example
The flu virus is going around the school.
Example
A rumor goes around the office quickly.
look around
Example
When we arrived at the museum, we decided to look around first.
Example
She looks around the store to find the perfect gift.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go around
To travel around something, especially by sea or air.
Example
The sailors had to circumnavigate the globe to complete their mission.
To take a longer or alternative route to avoid an obstacle or reach a destination.
Example
Due to the road closure, we had to take a detour to get to the airport on time.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look around
To investigate or discover a place or area.
Example
We decided to explore the city on foot and stumbled upon some hidden gems.
To examine or assess a place or situation.
Example
The inspector came to survey the building and check for any safety hazards.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “go”
Phrasal Verbs with “look”
Phrasal Verbs with “around”
Differences in go around vs look around: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: go around or look around?
In daily conversation, people use look around more often than go around. This is because look around is used for more common activities such as sightseeing or shopping. Go around is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about moving around or avoiding obstacles. So, while both phrases are used, look around is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go around and look around
Go around and look around are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of go around and look around
The tone of go around and look around can differ based on context. Go around often carries a practical or determined tone when related to accomplishing tasks or navigating obstacles, while look around typically has a curious and exploratory tone, especially when referring to discovering new places or things.
