Differences between look after and take after
Look after means to take care of someone or something, while take after means to resemble or have similar qualities to a family member.
Meanings and Definitions: look after vs take after
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Look after
- 1Take care.
Their auntie LOOKED AFTER them while their mother was in hospital.
Take after
- 1Look like, resemble.
He TAKES AFTER his mother.
Usage Examples: look after, take after 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.
take after
Example
She takes after her father in her love for sports.
Example
He takes after his mother in appearance.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look after
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take after
To have a similar appearance or quality to someone or something.
Example
The baby resembled her mother with her big brown eyes and curly hair.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “look”
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Phrasal Verbs with “after”
- lust after
- be after
- take after
- name after
- call after
Differences in look after vs take after: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: look after or take after?
In daily conversation, people use look after more often than take after. This is because look after is used for more daily tasks and routines such as taking care of children or pets. Take after is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about physical or personality traits. So, while both phrases are used, look after is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of look after and take after
Look after and take after 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 take after
The tone of look after and take after can differ based on context. Look after often carries a caring or responsible tone when related to taking care of someone or something, while take after typically has a curious or admiring tone, especially when referring to physical or personality traits.
