Differences between look after and look up
Look after means to take care of someone or something, while look up means to search for information about someone or something.
Meanings and Definitions: look after vs look up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Look after
- 1Take care.
Their auntie LOOKED AFTER them while their mother was in hospital.
Look up
- 1Consult a reference work ( dictionary, phonebook, etc. ) for a specific piece of information..
I didn't know the correct spelling so I had to LOOK it UP in the dictionary.
- 2Improve.
The economy is LOOKING UP.
- 3Find, trace an old friend.
I LOOKED him UP when I went back to Cambridge.
Usage Examples: look after, look up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
look after
Example
Please look after my dog while I'm on vacation.
Example
She looks after her younger siblings every day.
look up
Example
When I don't know a word, I look it up in the dictionary.
Example
She looks up new recipes online every week.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look after
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look up
To investigate or study a topic or subject in-depth to gain knowledge or understanding.
Example
He spent hours researching the best restaurants in the city before making a reservation.
To seek advice or information from a professional or expert in a specific field.
Example
The company decided to consult with a lawyer before signing the contract.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “look”
Phrasal Verbs with “after”
- go after
- make after
- name after
- get after
- call after
Differences in look after vs look up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: look after or look up?
In daily conversation, people use look after more often than look up. This is because look after is used for more daily tasks and routines such as taking care of children or pets. Look up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we need to find information about something or someone. So, while both phrases are used, look after is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of look after and look up
Look after and look up 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 look after and look up
The tone of look after and look up can differ based on context. Look after often carries a caring or responsible tone when related to taking care of someone or something, while look up typically has a curious or investigative tone, especially when referring to searching for information.
