English Reference

look at vs look for

Look at directs the eyes toward something visible, while look for is the act of searching for something missing.

look at

directing your eyes toward something

Please look at the whiteboard while I explain the new grammar rule.

look for

searching for a missing object

I need to look for my passport before we leave for the airport.

Watch out

  • Stop and look for that beautiful painting on the wall.

    Stop and look at that beautiful painting on the wall.

  • I spent an hour trying to look at my lost wallet.

    I spent an hour trying to look for my lost wallet.

Remember Look at the view; look for your keys.

Quick check

Fill the gap with one of the two options.

  1. 1.

    We stood on the balcony to the sunset over the city.

  2. 2.

    They spent the entire afternoon in the woods to mushrooms.

More like this in Everyday pairs.