Differences between look in and take in
Look in means to visit someone briefly, usually at their home or office, while take in means to understand or comprehend something.
Meanings and Definitions: look in vs take in
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Look in
- 1Make a quick visit.
I'll LOOK IN on my way home.
Take in
- 1Absorb information.
The lecture was rather boring and I didn't TAKE IN much of what the lecturer said.
- 2Deceive.
She TOOK me IN with her story until someone told me the truth.
- 3Make clothes smaller.
The jacket was far too big around the shoulders, so I had it TAKEN IN so that I could wear it.
- 4Assume care or support.
The family TOOK IN the three homeless kittens.
Usage Examples: look in, take in in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
look in
Example
I will look in on my way home from work.
Example
She looks in on her elderly neighbor every day.
take in
Example
I always take in new information when I read a good book.
Example
She takes in the information from the lecture quickly.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look in
swing by
To visit someone briefly, usually on the way to another destination.
Example
I'm going to swing by the grocery store to pick up some milk before heading home.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take in
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “look”
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Differences in look in vs take in: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: look in or take in?
In daily conversation, people use take in more often than look in. This is because take in is used to express understanding or comprehension, which is a common topic in conversations. Look in is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about visiting someone briefly. So, while both phrases are used, take in is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of look in and take in
Look in and take in 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 in and take in
The tone of look in and take in can differ based on context. Look in often carries a friendly or social tone when related to visiting someone, while take in typically has a thoughtful or surprised tone, especially when referring to understanding something.
