LOOKED UP

Human Communication

"In the journey of knowledge, there is wisdom when we have looked up to the stars and sought understanding among them."

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'looked up' usually means searching for information or raising one’s gaze towards something. It can also imply improvement in circumstances.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'looked up' usually means searching for information or raising one’s gaze towards something. It can also imply improvement in circumstances.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
Yes
The object can split the verb if a noun but not a pronoun.
Register
Neutral
It suits both formal and informal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
Requires an object when used for searching information.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple look up I often look up words I don’t know.
Past Simple looked up She looked up the recipe before cooking.
Present Continuous looking up He is looking up directions on his phone.
Present Perfect have looked up They have looked up every fact for the report.

💡 When to Use

Searching information
Use when actively seeking out information or definitions, commonly in reference materials or databases.
Example: "He looked up the word in the dictionary."
Raising gaze or head
Use when physically lifting one’s gaze or head, typically indicating a change in visual focus.
Example: "She looked up from her book as he entered the room."
Improving situations
Indicates that circumstances or conditions have started to improve or progress positively.
Example: "Things have finally looked up after a tough year."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect preposition
❌ Wrong: I looked on the word online.
✅ Correct: I looked up the word online.
💡 Tip: Remember 'up' for seeking information.
Misplaced object
❌ Wrong: Looked the recipe up last night.
✅ Correct: Looked up the recipe last night.
💡 Tip: Keep the verb and preposition together for clarity.
Verb agreement error
❌ Wrong: He look up the answer quickly.
✅ Correct: He looked up the answer quickly.
💡 Tip: Ensure past tense agreement in context.
Practice

LOOKED UP - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

  • 1
    Listen to example

    When lost, she looked up to the sky, finding solace in the stars.

    Words Multiplied
  • 2
    Listen to example

    During his research, he frequently looked up relevant journals online.

    Words Multiplied
  • 3
    Listen to example

    After the storm, everything looked up, brightening their day.

    Words Multiplied

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

searched for consulted

Antonyms

ignored

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"She ___ all the unfamiliar terms in the glossary."

looked on
looked up
looked over
looked in

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Looked Up

What is the origin of looked up?

+
The phrase 'looked up' dates back to the early 16th century, initially indicating simply gazing upwards. Over time, it evolved to encompass searching information, solidifying its presence in both literal and metaphorical contexts.

Can looked up be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
'Looked up' is versatile and fits well in both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used across different settings, from academic research to casual conversations, making it a practical choice for varied expressions.

What is the difference between looked up and searched for?

+
While both 'looked up' and 'searched for' imply seeking information, 'looked up' is often used when consulting specific sources like dictionaries, whereas 'searched for' can apply to broader, less structured information hunting.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Explore more phrasal verbs in our dictionary:

searched fortracked downresearcheddug upchecked out
Browse All Words Multiplied Phrasal Verbs
Human Communication Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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