What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
look
Example
She looked at the beautiful sunset. [look: verb]
Example
I took a quick look at my phone to check the time. [look: noun]
Example
He looked closely at the painting to admire the brushstrokes. [look: adverb]
peer
Example
She peered through the window to see who was outside. [peer: verb]
Example
The detective peered at the evidence to find any clues. [peer: verb]
Example
He squinted and peered into the distance, trying to make out the shape. [peer: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Look is more commonly used than peer in everyday language. Look is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while peer is less common and may sound more formal or literary.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between look and peer?
While look can be used in both formal and informal contexts, peer may sound more formal or literary due to its less common usage.