look in on
B1 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words
To visit someone quickly, usually to make sure they are okay.
Literal meaning: To briefly look in (inside) on (directed toward) a person or place.
Meanings
1 B1 neutral
To make a brief visit to someone to check that they are well or that everything is fine.
"I try to look in on my elderly neighbour every couple of days to make sure she's all right."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 neutral
To briefly observe or monitor a situation or place informally.
"The manager looked in on the meeting for five minutes before heading to the next appointment."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Common in both British and American English. Implies genuine care for the person being visited, not just a social call. Often used when visiting someone who is ill, elderly, or alone. Can also be used for checking on a situation or place.
Commonly used with
elderly neighbour patient children friend later
Forms
Base
look in on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
looks in on
he/she/it
Past simple
looked in on
yesterday
Past participle
looked in on
have + pp
-ing form
looking in on
continuous
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