In English communication, many phrases such as “I am very much looking forward” are commonly used in everyday speech. From my experience, this expression sounds natural but sometimes its grammatical correctness can be questioned. This article dives into the intricacies of this phrase, focusing on its structure and usage to determine if it is truly appropriate and grammatically sound. Clear and precise communication is important, and knowing when to use this phrase or choosing better alternatives can enhance your language skills and improve your message.
Looking deeper into the phrase, it fits casual conversations but may confuse some listeners or readers expecting more formal or polished speech. Understanding the necessary clarity and precision in different contexts helps. How this phrase is structured affects how people judge your fluency in English communication. Whether writing or speaking, paying attention to these details ensures you use the best expressions for your audience and purpose.
Understanding the Phrase: “I Am Very Much Looking Forward”
The Structure of the Phrase
The phrase “I am very much looking forward” combines the present continuous tense “I am looking forward” with the intensifier “very much.” However, this construction is incomplete without specifying what one is looking forward to. The verb phrase “look forward to” is a phrasal-prepositional verb, which necessitates an object to complete its meaning.
Incorrect: I am very much looking forward. Correct: I am very much looking forward to our meeting next week.
The Role of “Very Much”
The adverbial phrase “very much” serves as an intensifier, amplifying the sentiment of anticipation or eagerness. Its placement within the sentence can vary, but it should not disrupt the integrity of the phrasal verb.
Preferred: I very much look forward to your response. Also Acceptable: I look forward to your response very much.
However, inserting “very much” between components of the phrasal verb, such as between “look” and “forward,” is generally discouraged as it disrupts the verb’s structure.
The Grammar Behind “Look Forward To”
Phrasal-Prepositional Verb Explained
“Look forward to” is a phrasal-prepositional verb consisting of:
- Verb: look
- Adverbial Particle: forward
- Preposition: to
This combination functions as a single semantic unit, conveying the idea of anticipating or awaiting something with pleasure.
Requirement of an Object
The preposition “to” in this construction must be followed by a noun, pronoun, or gerund (the ing form of a verb) to complete the meaning.
Correct: I look forward to the weekend. Correct: She is looking forward to meeting you. Incorrect: I look forward.
Omitting the object after “to” renders the sentence incomplete and grammatically incorrect.
Common Usage and Variations
Formal vs. Informal Contexts
The choice between “I look forward to” and “I’m looking forward to” often depends on the formality of the context.
- Formal: I look forward to your reply.
- Informal: I’m looking forward to seeing you.
In formal writing, such as business correspondence, the simple present tense (“I look forward to”) is preferred. In casual conversations or informal writing, the present continuous tense (“I’m looking forward to”) is more common.
Inclusion of “Very Much”
Adding “very much” intensifies the expression of anticipation.
- Formal: I very much look forward to your response.
- Informal: I’m looking forward to the party.
While “very much” is suitable for formal contexts, alternatives like “really” or “so” are often used in informal settings.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Omitting the Object
As previously discussed, failing to include an object after “to” results in an incomplete sentence.
Incorrect: I am looking forward. Correct: I am looking forward to our meeting.
Misplacing “Very Much”
Placing “very much” within the phrasal verb disrupts its structure.
Incorrect: I look forward to your response. Correct: I very much look forward to your response.
Using the Infinitive Instead of the Gerund
After “look forward to,” the verb should be in the gerund form, not the infinitive.
Incorrect: I look forward to meeting you. Correct: I look forward to meeting you.
Alternatives to “I Am Very Much Looking Forward”
To convey anticipation or eagerness, consider the following alternatives:
- I eagerly await your response.
- I’m excited about our upcoming meeting.
- I can’t wait to see you.
- I’m anticipating our collaboration.
These variations can add diversity to your language and better suit different contexts.
Practical Examples
| Context | Preferred Expression |
| Formal Email | I very much look forward to your response. |
| Casual Conversation | I’m looking forward to the concert. |
| Business Meeting | We look forward to discussing this further. |
| Friendly Letter | Can’t wait to catch up soon! |
Conclusion
The phrase “I am very much looking forward” is grammatically incomplete without an object following “to.” Understanding the structure of phrasal-prepositional verbs like “look forward to” is essential for constructing correct and effective sentences. By paying attention to verb forms, object inclusion, and appropriate intensifiers, you can express anticipation clearly and appropriately across various contexts.
FAQS:
Is “I am very much looking forward” grammatically correct?
No, the phrase is grammatically incomplete. It requires an object after the preposition “to” to complete the thought.
✅ Correct: I am very much looking forward to our meeting. ❌ Incorrect: I am very much looking forward.
Can I say “very much looking forward” in formal writing?
Yes, but only when the sentence is complete and properly structured. It’s acceptable and even common in professional communication.
Example: I very much look forward to working with your team.
What should follow “look forward to”?
The word “to” in “look forward to” is a preposition, so it should be followed by:
- A noun: I look forward to the event.
- A pronoun: I look forward to it.
- A gerund (ing verb): I look forward to meeting you.
Is “look forward to meeting you” correct?
No, this is incorrect. The verb should be in gerund form after “to.”
✅ Correct: look forward to meeting you. ❌ Incorrect: look forward to meeting you
What are some alternatives to “I am very much looking forward”?
Here are several formal and informal alternatives:
- I eagerly await your reply.
- I’m excited about the opportunity.
- I can’t wait to begin.
- We anticipate your feedback.
- I’m looking forward to collaborating.
