Look Up – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever read a word you didn’t know? You probably opened a dictionary to find its meaning. You had to look up the word. This phrasal verb is very common and useful. It helps you talk about finding information or when a situation improves.
What Does “Look Up” Mean?
It has two main meanings. First, it means to search for information in a book, list, or online. Think of it like being a detective finding a clue. Second, it can mean that a situation is improving or getting better. It is not about turning your head to see something above you.
When to Use It
You can use look up in many everyday situations. Use it when you need to find a phone number, a recipe, or the meaning of a word. Use it with friends to talk about things getting better, like the weather or business. It is a neutral and friendly expression.
Example Sentences
- Can you look up the bus schedule online?
- I didn’t know the answer, so I had to look it up.
- Business is starting to look up this year.
- Things are looking up now that she found a new job.
Mini Dialogue
Anna: “I don’t know how to make this dish.”
Mark: “Let’s look up a recipe on the internet.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Remember, when you talk about searching for information, you can say “look up the information” or “look the information up.” The object can go in the middle.
❌ Don’t say: “I will look up it.”
✅ Do say: “I will look it up.” or “I will look up the address.”
Practice Tip
Next time you have a question, say out loud, “I should look that up.” Then, search for the answer online. Connecting the phrase to a real action helps you remember it.
Final Note
Now you know two great ways to use look up. It’s a practical phrase for daily life. Try using it this week, and you will see how helpful it is!
When to Use It
You can use look up in many everyday situations. Use it when you need to find a phone number, a recipe, or the meaning of a word. Use it with friends to talk about things getting better, like the weather or business. It is a neutral and friendly expression.
Example Sentences
- Can you look up the bus schedule online?
- I didn’t know the answer, so I had to look it up.
- Business is starting to look up this year.
- Things are looking up now that she found a new job.
Mini Dialogue
Anna: “I don’t know how to make this dish.”
Mark: “Let’s look up a recipe on the internet.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Remember, when you talk about searching for information, you can say “look up the information” or “look the information up.” The object can go in the middle.
❌ Don’t say: “I will look up it.”
✅ Do say: “I will look it up.” or “I will look up the address.”
Practice Tip
Next time you have a question, say out loud, “I should look that up.” Then, search for the answer online. Connecting the phrase to a real action helps you remember it.
Final Note
Now you know two great ways to use look up. It’s a practical phrase for daily life. Try using it this week, and you will see how helpful it is!
