1341 Look forward to (an event)

Explanation

To anticipate something with pleasure or excitement.

Origin

Appears in the 18th century.
Look signifies directing one's gaze or attention.
Forward indicates a future direction in time.
To connects the anticipation to the specific future event or experience.
Literally, 'to direct one's attention towards a future event', implying positive anticipation.
Note: The to here is a preposition, so it must be followed by a noun or a gerund (-ing form of a verb).

Alternatives

Slang/Informal:

Pumped for/Stoked about (Very enthusiastic, excited)
Hyped for (Excited, often due to promotion or buzz)
Counting the sleeps (UK/Aus informal, childlike excitement)

Vulgar/Emphatic (Expressing strong excitement):

I'm fucking looking forward to this!
Can't fucking wait!

Milder/Standard:

Await with pleasure (Formal)
Hope for (Less certain anticipation)

Situational Appropriateness

Very versatile. Used in informal conversation (looking forward to the weekend) and standard formal communication, especially closings in emails/letters (We look forward to hearing from you).
The level of enthusiasm conveyed depends on tone and adverbs (e.g., really, very much).

Misunderstanding Warnings

The most common error for learners is using the base form of the verb after to instead of the gerund (-ing form). Correct: I look forward to meeting you. Incorrect: I look forward to meet you. Emphasize that to is a preposition here.

Examples

I'm really looking forward to the holidays.
We look forward to meeting you next week. (Common in formal/business correspondence)
She's looking forward to starting her new job.
Are you looking forward to the concert?

Dialogue

Anna: Only two more weeks until our vacation!

Mark: I know! I'm really looking forward to just relaxing on the beach.

Anna: Me too. I'm also looking forward to trying all the local food.

Mark: It's going to be great.

Response Patterns

Reciprocation: Me too!, Same here!
Agreement/Shared feeling: Yes, it should be fun!, I'm excited too.
If asked (Are you looking forward to...?): Yes, very much!, Absolutely!, A little bit., Not really, actually.
In formal contexts (e.g., after We look forward to meeting you): Thank you, I am looking forward to it as well. or simply Thank you.

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

After someone expresses they are looking forward to something:

What are you most excited about?
Have you been planning for it?
Share your own anticipation if applicable.

After receiving a formal We look forward to... (e.g., meeting invite):

Confirm attendance or acknowledge receipt.
Express reciprocal anticipation.

Conversation Starter

Yes. Asking Are you looking forward to [upcoming event/holiday]? is a common way to start or continue a conversation.

Intonation

Stress often falls on look, forward, and the event being anticipated. Enthusiasm is common.
I'm really LOOKing FORward to the PARTY!
Can range from polite and formal (We look forward to hearing from you) to genuinely excited.

Generation Differences

Universally used and understood. Slang alternatives like pumped, stoked, hyped are more common among younger generations.

Regional Variations

Standard and common in all major English-speaking regions.

Go over (details/plans)

🎲 Make up (a story/excuse)

[1341] Look forward to (an event)