Differences between go over and look over
Go over usually means to review or examine something in detail, whereas look over generally means to quickly check or glance at something.
Meanings and Definitions: go over vs look over
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Go over
- 1Look at something, revise.
We WENT OVER our notes before the exam.
- 2Visit.
I hadn't seen her for a while, so I WENT OVER on Friday night.
- 3Be approved or accepted.
My plans WENT OVER well.
- 4Repeat or explain.
Could you GO OVER that point again, please?
- 5Clean.
I WENT OVER the living room with the vacuum cleaner before they arrived.
Look over
- 1Inspect.
They came to LOOK the house OVER with a view to buying it.
Usage Examples: go over, look over in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
go over
Example
Before the meeting, I will go over the report.
Example
She goes over her notes every evening.
look over
Example
Please look over the report before submitting it.
Example
She looks over her notes before the presentation.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go over
To examine or study something in detail to ensure accuracy or completeness.
Example
Before submitting the report, she decided to review it thoroughly to catch any errors or inconsistencies.
To examine or inspect something closely and critically.
Example
The detective decided to scrutinize the crime scene to gather more evidence and clues.
To examine or study something in detail to understand its structure, function, or nature.
Example
The scientist decided to analyze the data to identify patterns and trends.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look over
To quickly look over or examine something to get a general idea or impression.
Example
She decided to scan the article to see if it was worth reading in detail.
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 “over”
Differences in go over vs look over: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: go over or look over?
In daily conversation, people use look over more often than go over. This is because look over is used for more routine tasks such as checking emails or reviewing a document briefly. Go over is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about reviewing something in detail. So, while both phrases are used, look over is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go over and look over
Go over and look over 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 over and look over
The tone of go over and look over can differ based on context. Go over often carries a serious or studious tone when related to reviewing or examining something, while look over typically has a more casual and relaxed tone, especially when referring to checking something quickly.
