English Reference

Phrasal verb

look after

Definition

phrasal verb. to take care of someone or something; to make sure they stay safe and well.

phrasal verb. to assume responsibility for the care, safety, or maintenance of a person, animal, or object.

Examples

“I look after my little brother on Saturdays.”

“She looks after her neighbour's cat while they are on holiday.”

“Having looked after the family estate for decades, he knew every creaking floorboard and hidden stair.”

Examples

simple

“I look after my little brother on Saturdays.”

contextual

“She looks after her neighbour's cat while they are on holiday.”

complex

“Having looked after the family estate for decades, he knew every creaking floorboard and hidden stair.”

Usage

usually followed by a noun or pronoun referring to a person, pet, or possession.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'take care of' (fully synonymous) and 'care for' (can also mean 'like'); 'look after' is everyday British and American.

Pitfall

I look my brother after.

I look after my brother.

this phrasal verb is inseparable; the object must follow 'after'.

Phrasal verb

Particles

after

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

look + after + object

Synonyms

take care ofcare forwatch over

Antonyms

Related words

Grammar

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.A2 KeyIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.3.0–4.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 2.0–2.524–43TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.225–549
Level
A2 · ElementaryOxford
Updated

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English Reference