i was looking vs i looked

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'I was looking' is used to describe an ongoing action in the past, while 'I looked' is used to describe a completed action in the past. The choice between the two depends on whether you want to emphasize the continuous nature of the action or simply state that the action was done.

Last updated: March 17, 2024

i was looking

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to describe an ongoing action in the past.

'I was looking' is used to describe an action that was in progress at a specific point in the past. It emphasizes the continuous nature of the action.

Examples:

I was looking for my keys when I found them in my bag.
She was looking out the window when she saw the accident happen.
We were looking at old photographs when we heard a knock on the door.

Alternatives:

I was searching
I was seeking
I was gazing
I was staring
I was peering

i looked

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to describe a completed action in the past.

'I looked' is used to describe a specific action that was completed in the past. It indicates that the action happened at a particular moment.

Examples:

I looked everywhere for my phone, but I couldn't find it.
He looked at the clock and realized he was late.
She looked in the mirror and smiled at her reflection.

Alternatives:

I glanced
I observed
I peeped
I checked
I examined

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i was looking vs i looked

i was looking

i looked

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