Differences between look at and look in on
Look at means to direct your gaze towards something or someone, while look in on means to visit someone briefly to check on their well-being or to see how they are doing.
Meanings and Definitions: look at vs look in on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Look at
- 1Examine or inspect.
I’d like a skin specialist to look at that rash of yours.
- 2Direct your gaze towards someone or something.
Look at Helen. She’s much happier now she’s changed jobs.
Look in on
- 1Visit briefly to see if everything's all right.
I'm going to LOOK IN ON grannie on the way home tonight as she's been a bit unwell recently.
Usage Examples: look at, look in on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
look at
Example
Please look at the painting on the wall.
Example
She looks at the menu before ordering.
look in on
Example
I will look in on my neighbor to see if she needs any help.
Example
She looks in on her elderly aunt every week.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look at
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look in on
swing by
To visit someone briefly and on the way to another destination.
Example
He's going to swing by the grocery store before coming home.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “look”
Phrasal Verbs with “at”
Phrasal Verbs with “in on”
Differences in look at vs look in on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: look at or look in on?
In daily conversation, people use look at more often than look in on. This is because look at is used for more routine tasks such as observing something or someone. Look in on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about checking on someone's well-being. So, while both phrases are used, look at is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of look at and look in on
Look at and look in on 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 at and look in on
The tone of look at and look in on can differ based on context. Look at often carries a neutral or curious tone when related to observing something or someone, while look in on typically has a caring and concerned tone, especially when referring to checking on someone's well-being.
