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look for

A2 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words

To try to find something or someone.

Literal meaning: To direct your gaze (look) in order to find (for) something.

Meanings

1 A2 neutral

To try to find a person or physical object by searching.

"I've been looking for my keys for twenty minutes — have you seen them?"

Grammar: inseparable
2 A2 neutral

To seek something abstract, such as a job, a solution, or a relationship.

"She's been looking for a new job since the company downsized last spring."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B1 neutral

To try to find or understand the meaning, cause, or reason for something.

"Scientists are still looking for the cause of this unusual weather pattern."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

One of the most fundamental and high-frequency phrasal verbs in English. Used for everything from searching for physical objects to seeking abstract things like a job or an answer. Cannot be separated.

Commonly used with

job answer keys solution apartment partner

Forms

Base
look for
I/you/we/they
3rd person
looks for
he/she/it
Past simple
looked for
yesterday
Past participle
looked for
have + pp
-ing form
looking for
continuous

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