Look vs See vs Watch | Ask Linda! | English Grammar

In this video Linda breaks down the difference between “look”, “see” and “watch”.

Because of their many similarities, these three words are often confused.

Let’s take a look at their differences.

We use the word “look” when we look at something for a reason and with an intention, for example:

Look at that cute cat over there!
I often look at my wedding photos.

When we use the word “see”, we speak about something that we see naturally, without intention, such as in these examples:

Did you see me walk by your house yesterday?
I can see a large bird sitting on my windowsill.

When we look at something carefully and often at something that is moving, we use the word “watch”. Take a look at these examples:

I like to sit and watch people walking by.
We usually watch TV in the evening.

So remember, “look” is used when we look at something with an intention, “see” is used when we see something without an intention and “watch” is used when we watch something carefully and often also something that’s moving.

That’s it for today. See you next time!