look up to
/lʊk ʌp tuː/
Meaning
This three-word phrasal verb means to admire and respect someone deeply, often viewing them as a role model. It is commonly used when talking about mentors, older siblings, parents, or public figures. It is a warm, positive expression suitable for both personal and professional contexts.
Examples
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As a young athlete, she always looked up to her older sister.
As a young athlete, she always looked up to her older sister.
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Many young scientists look up to Marie Curie for her groundbreaking work.
Many young scientists look up to Marie Curie for her groundbreaking work.
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He is a fantastic manager, and everyone on the team looks up to him.
He is a fantastic manager, and everyone on the team looks up to him.
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It is important for children to have positive role models they can look up to.
It is important for children to have positive role models they can look up to.
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I have always looked up to my father for his honesty and hard work.
I have always looked up to my father for his honesty and hard work.
Common Mistakes
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✗ I look up my English teacher because she is so kind.
✓ I look up to my English teacher because she is so kind.
'Look up' means to search for information. You must use the full phrase 'look up to' to mean admire.
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✗ He looks up to of his older brother.
✓ He looks up to his older brother.
Do not add the preposition 'of' after 'look up to'.
Related Expressions
Practice
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I have always ___ up to my grandmother because of her strength.
💡 The past tense form of the main verb.
Show answer
looked
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She is a wonderful mentor, and many students look up ___ her.
💡 The final preposition in this three-word phrasal verb.
Show answer
to