looking-for
Definition
- Noun (uncountable, formal):
- The act of searching or seeking: "looking-for" refers to the process of actively searching for something or someone, often with a sense of anticipation or hope.
- Expectation or hope: It can also denote a state of waiting or longing for something desired.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The looking-for of the missing documents took several hours. (The act of searching for the lost papers.)
- Her constant looking-for a better job kept her motivated. (Her ongoing search for improved employment.)
- The looking-for of peace after the war was universal. (The collective hope for tranquility.)
Advanced Usage
"in looking-for": during the process of searching.
- In looking-for a solution, they discovered a new method. (While searching for an answer.)
"a looking-for of": a specific instance of seeking.
- He had a looking-for of adventure that never faded. (A persistent desire for excitement.)
Variants and Related Words
Look (verb): to direct one's gaze; to search.
- She looked for her keys everywhere. (She searched for her keys.)
Looker (noun): a person who looks or searches.
- He is a persistent looker for rare books. (He is a diligent searcher.)
Looking (adjective): having a certain appearance (e.g., "good-looking").
- The looking-for of the antique vase was unsuccessful. (The search for the vase.)
Synonyms
- Search: the act of examining carefully to find something.
- Quest: a long or arduous search for something.
- Hunt: an active, often urgent search.
- Expectation: a state of waiting or hoping for something.
Related Idioms
On the lookout for: actively searching or watching for something.
- She is always on the lookout for new opportunities. (She is constantly seeking new chances.)
In search of: trying to find something.
- They traveled in search of a better life. (They journeyed looking for improvement.)
Phrasal Verbs
- Look for: to search for or expect something.
- I am looking for my glasses. (I am searching for my glasses.)