look-in
The runner gave a quick look-in through the open window as he passed the house.
Definition
- Noun:
- A brief glance or look: "look-in" refers to a quick or casual look at something or someone.
- A short visit: It can mean a brief, informal visit to a place or person.
- A chance of success or participation: In informal contexts, especially sports or competitions, "look-in" means an opportunity to win or be involved.
Usage Examples
- A brief glance:
- She had a quick look-in at the shop window. (She glanced briefly at the display.)
- A short visit:
- I’ll give you a look-in when I’m in town. (I will visit you briefly while I am nearby.)
- A chance of success:
- He didn’t have a look-in during the race. (He had no opportunity to win or compete effectively.)
Advanced Usage
- "to have a look-in": to have a chance to participate or succeed.
- With such strong opponents, our team never had a look-in. (Our team never had a realistic chance of winning.)
- "to get a look-in": to be given an opportunity to be involved.
- The younger players rarely get a look-in on the starting lineup. (They are seldom given a chance to play.)
Variants and Related Words
- Look-in (as a verb phrase): The verb phrase "look in" is used to mean to visit briefly.
- I’ll look in on you tomorrow. (I will make a short visit.)
- Look-in (as a noun in sports): Often used in British English to describe a chance to score or win.
- The striker had a good look-in but missed the goal. (The striker had a clear opportunity to score.)
Synonyms
- Glance: a quick look.
- Visit: a short stay or call.
- Opportunity: a chance for success or involvement.
Related Idioms
- "not have a look-in": to have no chance at all.
- In the debate, the opposition didn’t have a look-in. (They were completely outmatched and had no opportunity to respond effectively.)
Phrasal Verbs
- Look in (on): to pay a short visit to someone or a place.
- She looked in on her elderly neighbour every day. (She visited briefly to check on him.)