# look after sb/sth/yourself

CEFR A2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/look-after-sb-sth-yourself
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

To take care of someone or something. You are responsible for their safety or well-being.

For teachers: To assume responsibility for the welfare, supervision, or maintenance of a person, animal, or object.

## Examples

- Can you look after my cat this weekend?
- My parents often look after my children when I have to work late.
- The conservator meticulously looked after the ancient manuscript, ensuring its preservation for future generations.

## Pitfalls

- Not "She looks after of her little brother." but "She looks after her little brother." — The object follows 'after' directly; no extra preposition like 'of' is needed.

## Usage notes

- This phrase always takes an object, which is the person, animal, or thing being cared for.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'take care of' (a near-synonym) and 'care for' (slightly more formal); 'look after' is the most common in everyday speech.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.