Quick Definition
Look Forward To — To feel excited or pleased about something that is going to happen.
Meanings of Look Forward To
| Meaning | Example Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Anticipate with pleasure | I'm looking forward to the holiday. | I'm excited about the holiday. |
| Formal letter close | We look forward to hearing from you. | Standard formal closing phrase. |
Example Sentences
| Sentence | Meaning in Context |
|---|---|
| I'm looking forward to the holiday. | I'm excited about the holiday. |
| We look forward to hearing from you. | Standard formal closing phrase. |
| "Don't worry -- I'll look forward to it." | Using it in a short reassurance. |
| She decided to look forward to the whole situation. | Applying the phrasal verb in context. |
Grammar Notes
Separability & Transitivity
Type: inseparable | Transitivity: transitive
Three-part inseparable phrasal verb. MUST be followed by a noun or gerund — NOT an infinitive: look forward to meeting you (NOT look forward to meet you).
How to Use Look Forward To
Used in both informal conversation and formal business correspondence. The gerund rule is crucial and commonly confused.
| Register | Example / Notes |
|---|---|
| Informal / Spoken | I'm looking forward to the holiday. |
| Neutral / Written | Consider context; single-word synonyms may suit formal writing. |
Similar Phrasal Verbs
Practise Look Forward To
Practice English Phrasal Verbs
Use these exercises to master phrasal verbs in context:
Frequently Asked Questions about Look Forward To
What does "Look Forward To" mean?
"Look Forward To" means: To feel excited or pleased about something that is going to happen. It is a transitive phrasal verb rated CEFR B1.
Is "Look Forward To" separable or inseparable?
"Look Forward To" is inseparable. Three-part inseparable phrasal verb. MUST be followed by a noun or gerund — NOT an infinitive: look forward to meeting you (NOT look forward to meet you).
How do I use "Look Forward To" in a sentence?
I'm looking forward to the holiday. -- in this example, 'Look Forward To' means i'm excited about the holiday.
What is the register of "Look Forward To"?
Used in both informal conversation and formal business correspondence. The gerund rule is crucial and commonly confused.
What CEFR level is "Look Forward To"?
"Look Forward To" is typically taught at CEFR B1 — Intermediate level. It appears frequently in used in both informal conversation and formal business correspondence contexts.
What is the difference between "Look Forward To" and similar phrasal verbs?
"Look Forward To" specifically means: To feel excited or pleased about something that is going to happen. Compare with similar verbs in the 'Similar Phrasal Verbs' section below for nuanced differences.
Can "Look Forward To" be used formally?
Used in both informal conversation and formal business correspondence. The gerund rule is crucial and commonly confused. When writing formally, consider whether a single-word synonym might be more appropriate for the context.
Does "Look Forward To" take an object?
"Look Forward To" is transitive. Three-part inseparable phrasal verb. MUST be followed by a noun or gerund — NOT an infinitive: look forward to meeting you (NOT look forward to meet you).
How can I practise "Look Forward To"?
Use LexFizz's Find the Match and Flip Tiles exercises to practise 'Look Forward To' in context. Seeing it in multiple sentences helps the meaning stick.
Is "Look Forward To" used in British or American English?
"Look Forward To" is used in both British and American English, though register and frequency may vary. Used in both informal conversation and formal business correspondence. The gerund rule is crucial and commonly confused.