1 B1 neutral
To investigate or find out about something more carefully.
"The police said they would look into the complaint as soon as possible."
inseparable
look into
B1 neutral inseparable transitive
To investigate or examine something carefully in order to find out more about it.
In plain English
To try to find out more information about something by studying or investigating it.
What does "look into" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 neutral
To research or explore a subject in order to understand it better or consider it as an option.
"She's looking into the possibility of studying abroad next semester."
inseparable
3 A2 neutral
To look physically inside or into a container, space, or area.
"The child looked into the box and gasped at what was inside."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To direct your gaze into (inside) something — the figurative meaning extends this to mental examination of a topic.
Actually means
To try to find out more information about something by studying or investigating it.
Usage tip
Very common in business, journalism, and everyday speech. Often used when someone promises to find out more: 'I'll look into it.' Can also be used literally (to look physically into a container or space), though the figurative sense dominates.
Words that pair with "look into"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
matter complaint issue possibility background allegations
How to conjugate "look into"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
look into
I/you/we/they
3rd person
looks into
he/she/it
Past simple
looked into
yesterday
Past participle
looked into
have + pp
-ing form
looking into
continuous
Hear "look into" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "look into" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.