Look Forward to It: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
June 7, 2024

"Look forward to it" is a phrase used to express anticipation or excitement about a future event, activity, or occurrence. It conveys a positive attitude towards what is coming up and indicates that the speaker is eager to experience or participate in it. For example, if someone says, "I look forward to the vacation," it means they are excited about the upcoming vacation and are eagerly awaiting it. The phrase is commonly used in both informal and formal communication, including personal conversations, emails, and letters, to show enthusiasm about future plans or arrangements.

In short:

  • It expresses anticipation or excitement about something that will happen in the future.
  • It indicates a positive and eager attitude towards upcoming events or experiences.

What Does "Look Forward to It" Mean?

"Look forward to it" signifies a person's eagerness and positive anticipation toward a future event or experience. The phrase is often used to convey enthusiasm and a positive outlook about what is to come. It can be related to personal events, such as vacations, reunions, special occasions, and professional contexts, including meetings, projects, or collaborations. The phrase can also be a polite way to end conversations or correspondence, signaling optimism and a good-willed attitude towards future interactions.

More about the phrase's meaning:

  • It is a versatile expression that can be applied in various contexts, from personal to professional.
  • Using this phrase can enhance the tone of communication, making it more positive and forward-looking.
  • It often serves as a sign-off in written communication, suggesting anticipation for future correspondence or events.
  • "Look forward to it" can also indicate gratitude and appreciation for an upcoming opportunity.
  • While the phrase is commonly followed by specific details (e.g., "I look forward to the meeting"), it can stand alone as "look forward to it" to reference a previously mentioned event.

Where Does "Look Forward to It" Come From?

The exact origins of the phrase "look forward to it" are not easily traceable, as it is a combination of common words that have been used in the English language for centuries. However, the phrase embodies the idea of forward thinking and anticipation, which are concepts that have been expressed in various ways throughout the history of language. The phrase likely evolved from the natural human tendency to anticipate future events with hope or excitement.

10 Examples of "Look Forward to It" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how "look forward to it" can be used:

  • After finalizing the details of the business trip, she said, "I really look forward to it."
  • "We look forward to the wedding," the couple mentioned when discussing their plans.
  • Oh yeah, I look forward to it. We're going to have a blast.
  • "I look forward to our collaboration on this project," the manager told her new team member.
  • This adventure is not for the faint of heart, but I look forward to it anyway.
  • "Thank you for the invitation. I look forward to it," she replied to the dinner invite.
  • "We look forward to your performance," the event organizers told the artist.
  • In his farewell email, he wrote, "I look forward to keeping in touch with all of you."
  • "I look forward to our next meeting," said the consultant, ending the session.
  • You have a bright future ahead of you, and I look forward to seeing you achieve your dreams.

Examples of "Look Forward to It" in Pop Culture

This phrase is widely used across various forms of pop culture, including films, TV shows, and music, often to express characters' anticipation for future events or to create a sense of excitement among the audience.

Let's look at some examples:

  • In "Cruel Intentions," a character expresses eager anticipation with the line, "Looking forward to it," capturing a moment of intrigue and anticipation in the complex plot of seduction and betrayal.
  • Studio Curiosity's song "I Look Forward To It, Partner," featured in the soundtrack of ITAEWON CLASS, encapsulates the anticipation and camaraderie among the series' characters, reflecting their mutual support and aspirations.
  • The TV series Mad Men includes a poignant exchange in which Peggy Olson declares, "I look forward to it," during a discussion about workplace dynamics and personal aspirations. This highlights her determination and forward-looking attitude.
  • Ann Brashares, in her personal blog update, expresses her excitement about the continuity of her novel My Name is Memory, expressing her anticipation with "I frankly look forward to it," and discusses the development and potential of her storytelling.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "Look Forward to It"

Here are some alternative phrases that express the same idea:

  • Can’t wait
  • Eagerly anticipate
  • Excited about
  • Awaiting with anticipation
  • Counting down the days
  • Excitedly awaiting
  • Anxious to see
  • Enthusiastic about
  • Anticipating with pleasure
  • Thrilled about

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Look Forward to It":

  • What does "look forward to it" mean?

"Look forward to it" means to eagerly anticipate or be excited about a future event or experience.

  • Is "look forward to it" formal or informal?

The phrase can be used in both formal and informal contexts, adjusting slightly based on the situation and audience.

  • Can "look forward to it" be used in professional emails?

Yes, it is commonly used in professional emails as a polite and positive way to express anticipation for future interactions or events.

  • How can I reply to "I look forward to it"?

A suitable reply might be, "Thank you, I'm also looking forward to it!" or simply, "Me too!" to express mutual anticipation.

  • Is it correct to say "looking forward to it"?

Yes, "looking forward to it" is a correct and common variation of the phrase, often used in more casual or conversational contexts.

  • Can "look forward to it" be used to end a conversation?

Yes, it's a positive and forward-looking way to conclude conversations, especially when planning future meetings or events.

  • What's the difference between "look forward to it" and "looking forward to it"?

The main difference is in tense; "look forward to it" is more formal and often used in written communication, while "looking forward to it" is more conversational.

  • Is "look forward to it" always positive?

Generally, yes. It expresses positive anticipation, although the context can sometimes add layers of irony or sarcasm, depending on how it's used.

  • Can "look forward to it" be used sarcastically?

While it's primarily a positive phrase, like many expressions, it can be used sarcastically in certain contexts to imply the opposite.

  • How can I incorporate "look forward to it" in formal invitations?

In formal invitations, you might include "look forward to it" as part of a closing remark, such as, "We look forward to welcoming you at the event."

Final Thoughts About "Look Forward to It"

"Look forward to it" is a versatile phrase that adds warmth and positivity to communication, highlighting anticipation for future events or interactions. Its ability to bridge formal and informal contexts makes it a valuable expression in personal and professional settings.
To recap:

  • It is an effective way to express excitement and positive anticipation.
  • Applicable in various contexts, the phrase enhances the tone of messages and conversations.
  • Using "look forward to it" can help foster a sense of enthusiasm and eagerness about future plans or meetings.
  • It's a phrase that embodies optimism, making it a powerful tool in building and maintaining relationships.

We encourage you to share this article on Twitter and Facebook. Just click those two links - you'll see why.

It's important to share the news to spread the truth. Most people won't.

U.S Dictionary is the premier dictionary about the English language as used in the United States of America.
Copyright © 2024 - U.S. Dictionary
Privacy Policy
magnifier