Understanding the Phrasal Verb 'Look up to': Meaning and Usage

Welcome, English learners! Phrasal verbs can be tricky, but understanding them is key to fluency. Today, we're diving deep into the phrasal verb 'Look up to'. You'll often hear people say they look up to someone, meaning they admire and respect them. This article will explore the meaning of 'Look up to', its grammatical structure, related synonyms, and give you a chance to practice. By the end, you'll feel more confident using this common and important English phrasal verb.

Understanding the phrasal verb Look up to

What Does Look up to Mean?
Structure with Look up to
Related Phrases and Synonyms
Practice Time!
Conclusion

What Does Look up to Mean?

The phrasal verb 'Look up to' primarily means to feel respect and admiration for someone. When you look up to an individual, it's often because of their achievements, qualities, or position. It implies that you consider them a positive example or a role model.

More:

Structure with Look up to

Understanding how to use 'Look up to' in sentences is crucial for effective communication. This phrasal verb is transitive and inseparable, meaning it always needs an object (the person being admired) and the words 'look', 'up', and 'to' stay together.

The general structure is: Subject + look up to + [object/person].

Let's explore the nuances of its meaning with specific structures and examples. While the core meaning of admiration is constant, the context can slightly shift the emphasis.

Meaning 1: General Admiration and Respect

This is the most common understanding of 'Look up to'. It refers to having a high opinion of someone because of their character, abilities, or achievements. It's about recognizing their positive qualities and holding them in esteem.

Structure: Subject + look up to + [someone]
Example 1: Many young athletes look up to successful sports stars for their dedication and skill.
Example 2: She has always looked up to her older sister for her intelligence and kindness.

In these examples, 'Look up to' highlights a general feeling of respect. This use is fundamental when you want to learn English and express admiration appropriately.

Meaning 2: Viewing Someone as a Role Model

Often, when you look up to someone, you see them as a role model – someone whose behavior or success you want to emulate. This implies a desire to follow their example or learn from their path.

Structure: Subject + look up to + [someone] + (as a role model / for [specific quality/action])
Example 1: Many children look up to their parents as their first and most important role models.
Example 2: He looks up to his former professor for her passion for teaching and her contributions to research.

Here, the emphasis is on the inspirational aspect. Understanding this phrasal verb meaning helps in conveying a deeper level of respect linked to guidance and aspiration.

Meaning 3: Respect for Guidance or Inspiration

This nuance focuses on the respect given to someone who provides guidance, inspiration, or sets a standard. It's about acknowledging their positive influence on your own or others' development or thinking.

Structure: Subject + look up to + [someone] + (for their [guidance/wisdom/inspiration])
Example 1: Aspiring entrepreneurs often look up to established business leaders for their innovative ideas and strategic thinking.
Example 2: The entire team looks up to the captain for her unwavering leadership and motivational spirit, especially during challenging times.

Using 'Look up to' in this context shows appreciation for the influential qualities of an individual. It’s a key part of expressing nuanced respect in English phrasal verbs.

Related Phrases and Synonyms

While 'Look up to' is a fantastic phrasal verb, knowing some synonyms can enrich your vocabulary. Here are five words and phrases that convey a similar meaning of admiration and respect, along with explanations and examples.

Synonym	Meaning	Example Sentence
Admire	To regard with wonder, pleasure, or approval.	I deeply admire her courage and resilience.
Respect	To feel or show deferential regard for; esteem.	We should all respect those who work hard to help others.
Esteem	To regard with respect or admiration.	She is highly esteemed by her colleagues for her integrity.
Hold in high regard	To have great respect or admiration for someone.	The community holds the local doctor in high regard.
Revere	To feel deep respect or admiration for something/someone, often with a sense of awe.	Many people revere historical figures who fought for justice.

Using these synonyms can help you vary your language and express different shades of admiration. They are excellent additions to your vocabulary as you learn English.

Practice Time!

Let's test your understanding of the phrasal verb 'Look up to'. Choose the best option for each question.

Question 1: Which sentence uses "Look up to" correctly? a) Children often look up to their favorite superheroes.

b) She will look up to the information in the dictionary.

c) He looks to up his elder brother.

d) They look up their mentor to.

Correct answer: a

Question 2: The phrasal verb "Look up to" primarily means: a) To search for information.

b) To admire and respect someone.

c) To physically look upwards at someone tall.

d) To anticipate something with pleasure.

Correct answer: b

Question 3: Fill in the blank: "Many students ________ their inspiring teachers." a) look to up

b) look up

c) look up to

d) look at to

Correct answer: c

Question 4: Which of the following is the closest synonym for "Look up to"? a) Ignore

b) Criticize

c) Admire

d) Investigate