Phrasal verbs "look for" vs "look up to"

Differences between look for and look up to

Look for means to search for something or someone, while look up to means to admire or respect someone.

Meanings and Definitions: look for vs look up to

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Look for

  • 1Try to find.

    I've been LOOKING FOR all their hidden files, but I can't find them anywhere.

Look up to

  • 1Respect.

    She's LOOKS UP TO her mother.

Usage Examples: look for, look up to in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

look for

Example

I always look for my keys before leaving the house.

Example

She looks for her glasses every morning.

look up to

Example

Many children look up to their parents as role models.

Example

She looks up to her teacher for guidance and support.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look for

To try to find something or someone by looking carefully and systematically.

Example

I need to search for my keys before I leave the house.

To search for something or someone in a determined and persistent way.

Example

She spent the whole day hunting for the perfect dress for her sister's wedding.

To actively look for and find something or someone, often with a specific purpose or goal in mind.

Example

He decided to seek out a mentor to help him advance his career.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look up to

To have a high opinion of someone or something and respect them for their qualities or achievements.

Example

I admire my grandmother for her strength and resilience.

To show consideration and appreciation for someone's abilities, qualities, or achievements.

Example

I have a lot of respect for my boss because she always listens to her employees' opinions.

To have a great deal of respect and admiration for someone or something.

Example

Many people hold Nelson Mandela in high regard for his leadership and fight against apartheid in South Africa.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “for”

Differences in look for vs look up to: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: look for or look up to?

In daily conversation, people use look for more often than look up to. This is because look for is used for more daily tasks and routines such as searching for lost items or looking for a new job. Look up to is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about admiration or respect. So, while both phrases are used, look for is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of look for and look up to

Look for and look up to 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 for and look up to

The tone of look for and look up to can differ based on context. Look for often carries a practical or urgent tone when related to searching for something or someone, while look up to typically has a positive and respectful tone, especially when referring to admiring someone's qualities or achievements.

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