Look for trouble
verb phrase
To intentionally seek out situations that may lead to problems or conflicts.
Despite his mother's warnings, he seemed to always look for trouble.
Often appears as...
- seems to look for trouble
- stop looking for trouble
Usage tips
Colloquial
verb phrase
To inspect something closely in order to identify potential issues or problems.
Before buying a used car, it's essential to thoroughly look for trouble signs like engine noise or rust.
Often appears as...
- look for trouble signs
- look for trouble areas
verb phrase
To intentionally seek out situations that may lead to problems or conflicts.
Despite his mother's warnings, he seemed to always look for trouble.
Often appears as...
- seems to look for trouble
- stop looking for trouble
Usage tips
Colloquial
verb phrase
To inspect something closely in order to identify potential issues or problems.
Before buying a used car, it's essential to thoroughly look for trouble signs like engine noise or rust.
Often appears as...
- look for trouble signs
- look for trouble areas
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Conflict Seeking
The phrase often implies a person enjoys the thrill or attention from causing trouble.
He gets a mischievous look when he's about to look for trouble.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Connotation
Using the phrase suggests disapproval of someone's behavior or choices.
She warned him not to hang out with those who look for trouble.
Pro Tip 3/3Colloquial Usage
It's commonly used in everyday speech rather than formal writing.
If you're out late again looking for trouble, you'll be grounded!
Pro Tip 1/3Conflict Seeking
The phrase often implies a person enjoys the thrill or attention from causing trouble.
He gets a mischievous look when he's about to look for trouble.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Connotation
Using the phrase suggests disapproval of someone's behavior or choices.
She warned him not to hang out with those who look for trouble.
Pro Tip 3/3Colloquial Usage
It's commonly used in everyday speech rather than formal writing.
If you're out late again looking for trouble, you'll be grounded!
Pro Tip 1/3Conflict Seeking
The phrase often implies a person enjoys the thrill or attention from causing trouble.
He gets a mischievous look when he's about to look for trouble.
Pro Tip 2/3Negative Connotation
Using the phrase suggests disapproval of someone's behavior or choices.
She warned him not to hang out with those who look for trouble.
Pro Tip 3/3Colloquial Usage
It's commonly used in everyday speech rather than formal writing.
If you're out late again looking for trouble, you'll be grounded!
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