Which is correct, “looking forward to speak with you” or “look forward to speak with you”?

Title: Which is Correct: « Looking Forward to Speak with You » or « Look Forward to Speak with You »?

Introduction:

In the context of written communication, it is essential to convey the intended meaning accurately. One common question that arises is whether to use the phrase « looking forward to speak with you » or « look forward to speak with you. » This article aims to provide a definitive answer to this question based on the most recent information available.

Current Information:

As of the year 2023, the correct phrase to use is « look forward to speak with you. » This structure is widely accepted and commonly used in English. It expresses anticipation or excitement about a future conversation.

How? Arguing the Answer:

1. Usage and Acceptance: Numerous language experts, grammar guides, and reputable websites advocate for the usage of « look forward to. » For instance, Grammarly, a popular grammar-checking tool, recommends using « look forward to » instead of « looking forward to » in professional writing.

2. Frequency of Usage: A quick analysis of contemporary written communication, such as emails, business letters, and official documents, reveals a predominance of the phrase « look forward to speak with you. » This indicates its widespread usage and acceptance in various professional contexts.

3. Grammatical Explanation: « Look forward to » is a phrasal verb typically followed by a noun, noun phrase, or the -ing form of a verb. In this case, « to speak with you » functions as a verb-infinitive phrase, and ‘look forward’ acts as the main verb. This usage aligns with standard grammatical structures in English.

Example:
Dear John,

I wanted to express my appreciation for your time this morning. I really look forward to speaking with you further about our upcoming project.

Best regards,
[Your Name]

Why? Detailing the Answer:

Using the phrase « look forward to speak with you » instead of « looking forward to speak with you » is supported by several reasons:

1. Clarity: « Look forward to speak with you » provides a clearer and more concise expression of anticipation compared to « looking forward to speak with you. » It eliminates ambiguity and potential confusion.

2. Grammar Consistency: Consistency in grammar is crucial for effective communication. By following established grammar rules, such as using the correct phrasal verb form, language users maintain uniformity and enhance readability.

3. Professionalism: Selecting the appropriate language style is vital in professional settings. By utilizing the widely accepted phrase « look forward to speak with you, » individuals demonstrate their competence and adherence to established linguistic norms.

Current State:

In current language usage, the phrase « look forward to speak with you » is considered correct, widely accepted, and appropriate for formal and professional communication.

Additional Questions and Answers:

Q1: What is the difference between « look forward to speak with you » and « looking forward to speak with you »?

A1: The main distinction lies in their grammatical structure. « Look forward to speak with you » follows the correct phrasal verb form, while « looking forward to speak with you » deviates from standard grammar rules.

Q2: Is there any cultural context influencing the use of these phrases?

A2: No, the choice between « look forward to speak with you » and « looking forward to speak with you » is primarily based on grammatical correctness rather than cultural context.

Q3: Are there any studies supporting the usage of « look forward to speak with you »?

A3: While specific studies on this specific phrase may not be available, language experts and grammar references consistently recommend and advise using « look forward to » instead of « looking forward to » in professional writing.

Q4: Can the phrase « looking forward to speak with you » be considered incorrect?

A4: While the phrase may be understood by most English speakers, it is still considered less common and potentially grammatically incorrect when compared to the widely accepted phrase « look forward to speak with you. »

Conclusion:

To conclude, the correct phrase to use is « look forward to speak with you. » This expression has gained widespread acceptance and usage in contemporary written communication. Its grammatical correctness, clarity, and alignment with professional language standards make it the preferred choice in formal settings.