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see after

B1 informal inseparable transitive
In simple words

To take care of someone or deal with something that needs attention

Meanings

1 B1 idiomatic informal

To take care of a person, animal, or place on someone's behalf

"Could you see after the dog while I'm away this weekend?"

Grammar: inseparable
2 B1 idiomatic informal

To attend to or deal with a matter that needs handling

"Don't worry about the arrangements — I'll see after everything before the guests arrive."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

More common in British, Irish, and Scottish English than in American English. Largely synonymous with 'look after' and 'see to'. May sound regional or old-fashioned to some speakers. Learners should note that 'look after' is more universally understood.

Commonly used with

children elderly pets house business guests

Forms

Base
see after
I/you/we/they
3rd person
sees after
he/she/it
Past simple
saw after
yesterday
Past participle
seen after
have + pp
-ing form
seeing after
continuous

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Synonyms

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