English is a dense forest of expressions, where phrases like “I am very much looking forward” can often cause doubt. Some learners may wonder if it’s formal, outdated, or simply incorrect. But in truth, this phrase is not only grammatically correct– it’s also quite polished, particularly in emails or professional messages. It expresses genuine anticipation, making it ideal for both casual and formal contexts.
This expression adds a layer of emotion and formality to communication. While it may seem intimidating at first, the phrase fits comfortably once you get used to it.
Just like the rest of English, which is filled with idioms and patterns, once you embrace its rhythm, phrases like these begin to make sense. Learning how to navigate English is a journey- one where even confusing expressions become tools that help you sound more fluent and natural.
“I Am Very Much Looking Forward”
When someone writes “I am very much looking forward”, it might seem polite and enthusiastic- but does it sound natural? Maybe not. In English, that phrase often misses the important piece: what you’re looking forward to.
In this in‑depth guide, you’ll learn:
- Whether “I am very much looking forward” is correct
- How grammar makes or breaks the phrase
- When to use it and when to choose alternatives
- Cultural and formality insights
- Plenty of real‑world examples, tables, and tips
Let’s jump in and make your writing shine with clarity, tone, and impact.
Is “I Am Very Much Looking Forward” Grammatically Correct? Understanding the Essentials
Yes- it’s grammatically correct in part. The problem? It usually feels incomplete without a following object or phrase.
- ✗ “I am very much looking forward.” → Feels like a question left hanging.
- ✓ “I am very much looking forward to meeting you.” → Feels polished, complete, and purposeful.
Key takeaway: “Looking forward” must have a clear object- either to + verb‑ing or a noun. If you stop short, readers wonder: “Looking forward to what exactly?”
Example breakdown:
- “I am looking forward to the meeting.” – Clear, correct.
- “I am very much looking forward to the meeting.” – Adds emphasis, still crisp.
- “I am very much looking forward.” – Missing the target- sounds odd.
So yes, correct, but it needs that final piece.
Dissecting the Phrase: How Does It All Fit Together?
Let’s break down the structure behind “I am very much looking forward to…“.
Core elements
| Component | Function |
| I am (present continuous) | Sets the tone of current expectation |
| looking forward | Expression of future anticipation |
| to + noun/verb‑ing | Specifies the target of anticipation |
| very much | Intensifier adding emphasis |
Each part plays a crucial role. Remove anyone, and meaning, correctness, or tone weakens.
The Role of “Very Much” in Emphasizing Anticipation
“Very much” strengthens the emotion behind “looking forward.” But placement matters.
Good:
- “I am very much looking forward to our call.”
- “I’m looking forward to it very much.”
Awkward:
- “I am looking very much forward…”
- “Very much I am looking forward…”
When used correctly, the phrase reads smoothly, showing genuine eagerness without rambling.
Common Learner Errors: What to Avoid
English learners often make these mistakes with this phrase:
- 🤔 Missing the “to”
- ✗ “I look forward to meeting you.”
- ✓ “I look forward to meeting you.”
- 😬 Dropping the object
- ✗ “I am very much looking forward.”
- ✓ “I am very much looking forward to it.”
- 😅 Misplacing “very much”
- ✗ “I am looking forward very much to our call.”
- ✓ “I am very much looking forward to our call.”
- 🌬️ Overusing intensifiers
- Using multiple words like ‘large’, ‘very’, or ‘extremely’ could sound exaggerated.
Proper Usage: Correct vs. Incorrect Examples
| Incorrect | Correct |
| I look forward to meeting you. | I look forward to meeting you. |
| I am very much looking forward. | I am very much looking forward to it. |
| I look forward to seeing you very much. | I am very much looking forward to seeing you. |
| I’m looking forward to seeing you. | I’m very much looking forward to seeing you. |
| I am very much looking forward to the event. | I am very much looking forward to the event. |
These tweaks may seem small, but they push your writing from shaky to polished.
When and Where to Use “I Am Very Much Looking Forward”
Formal settings
- Business emails
- Teacher‑student correspondence
- Grant or job applications
Example:
Dear Hiring Manager,
I am very much looking forward to discussing my qualifications in our upcoming interview.
Informal settings
- Chat with friends
- Casual text
- Relaxed emails
Example:
Hey Sam,
I’m very much looking forward to hanging out this weekend!
Adjust the tone to match your audience, and you’ll land the right vibe every time.
Why “Very Much” Sounds Courteous & Warm
In English, adding very much softens statements adds enthusiasm, and shows respect, especially in formal or polite communications.
- Direct: I look forward to seeing you.
- Warm: I am very much looking forward to seeing you.
That extra layer signals genuine positivity. It’s like adding a splash of color to a neutral palette.
Alternates and Synonyms: Keeping Variety in Your Writing
Avoid repetition by using these emotionally rich, situationally appropriate alternatives:
- “I truly look forward to…” – Sincere, formal
- “I’m eagerly awaiting…” – Slightly more emotional
- “Can’t wait to…” – Casual and enthusiastic
- “I anticipate with great interest…” – Ultra‑formal
Example:
Dear Jane,
I’m eagerly awaiting our brainstorming session on Monday!
Looking forward to catching up,
Alex
Always choose the right tone and energy level for your context.
Related Phrases: Common Confusions Explained
English is full of similar‑sounding structures that trip people up:
- “I am excited to…” vs. “I am looking forward to…”
- Excited = emotional state now
- Looking forward = expectation of the future
- Often, both work- but nuance matters.
- “I look forward” vs. “I’m looking forward”
- Slight formality difference. The progressive form can feel more personal.
- Misused variants:
- “May you please…?” → Use “Could you please…?”
- “Borrow me that pen.” → Use “Could I borrow that pen?”
- “Based in New York” (for residency) vs. “Based out of New York” (for operations)
Grammar Tips for ESL & Business English Learners
Mastering verb‑preposition combos:
Term → Format
- look forward → to + noun / verb‑ing
- listen → to + noun/verb‑ing
- depend → on
Gerunds vs. infinitives:
After prepositions, always use gerunds (verb+ing).
- Correct: communicate about sending the notes.
- Incorrect: communicate about sending the notes.
Idiomatic vs. literal:
“Look forward to” doesn’t mean physically looking ahead. It’s an idiom expressing eagerness or anticipation.
Brief History: Where Did “Looking Forward” Come From?
- Gained popularity in 19th‑century letters as a refined closing line.
- Usage increased in 20th-century business communication.
- Now, it’s commonplace in both professional emails and casual speech.
Understanding origins helps readers see how language evolves- and why this phrase sticks.
When It Sounds Off: Avoiding Overuse and Awkwardness
Situations where using “very much looking forward” can feel off:
- Casual chats, like texting “See ya later”
- Concise messages, where shortness is key
- Repetitive writing, if you’ve used it too much already
Overuse can sound stiff or repetitive. Switch it up when needed.
You Didn’t Know You Had
Can I say “looking forward very much”?
Technically okay, but feels clunky. Better: “I’m very much looking forward to…”
Is “very much” always necessary?
No. It adds emphasis but is optional. Use it when you want to show enthusiasm or formality.
Can I pair “very much” with other phrases?
Yes! Try:
- “I very much appreciate…”
- “I am very much hoping…”
Just ensure natural placement.
Is “looking forward” formal or informal?
It’s neutral. Add or drop “very much” to adjust the tone.
What closes an email better than “very much looking forward”?
Try:
- “Looking forward to your feedback.”
- “I’ll touch base next week.”
- “Please feel free to reach out anytime.”
Real-Life Case Study: Business Email That Hits the Tone
Scenario: MBA candidate follows up after the interview.
Subject: Thank You and Next Steps
Dear Ms. Lo,
Thank you for meeting with me yesterday regarding the Marketing Director role at Acme Corp. I am very much looking forward to the opportunity to apply my strategy experience and contribute to your team’s success.
Please let me know if you’d like any additional information or to schedule a second conversation.
Kind regards,
Sarah Johnston
Why it works:
- Polite, professional tone
- “Very much looking forward” shows enthusiasm
- Clear call to action
Deep-Dive Tips: Polishing Your Writing
- Always read aloud your sentences. If it stumbles off your tongue, revise.
- Check placement:
- If you use “very much”, place it before the core verb phrase: very much looking forward
- Match tone:
- Formal → email to CEO
- Casual → group chat with peers
- Use variety:
- Rotate eagerly awaiting, can’t wait, truly looking forward
- Don’t force it:
- If it feels unnatural, just say “I look forward to…”
Confidence Through Clarity
Yes, “I am very much looking forward” can be correct– but only when you give it direction. Use proper structure, match tone, and shy away from overuse.
Let your writing shine with:
- Proper grammar – “to + object”, gerunds, intensifiers
- Tonal awareness – formal or informal
- Variability – synonyms, varied placements
- Readability – short phrases, natural tone, speech‑like flow
When used thoughtfully, this phrase becomes a tool for warmth, engagement, and clarity- never filler.
Extra Resources & Learning Links
- Gerunds After Prepositions – Deep Grammar Guide
- Email Writing Tips for Professionals
- Tone and Register in English
Final Thoughts
In the world of English communication, especially formal writing, every word carries weight. The phrase “I am very much looking forward” is polite, expressive, and correct, but only when it’s complete. If you stop there, you leave your reader waiting for the rest of the sentence.
Always pair it with a clear object, like “to meet you” or “to our discussion”- and you’ll strike the perfect balance between professional tone and warmth. Whether you’re crafting a business email, sending a thank-you note, or simply expressing excitement about plans, knowing when and how to use this phrase makes your communication stand out.
FAQs
Is it grammatically correct to say “I am very much looking forward”?
Only if it’s followed by “to” and an object or gerund. Alone, the phrase feels incomplete. For example:
“I am very much looking forward to our meeting.”
“I am very much looking forward.”
Can I say “I very much look forward to…” instead of “I am very much looking forward to…”?
Yes, both are correct.
- “I very much look forward to…” is slightly more formal and traditional.
- “I am very much looking forward to…” feels more conversational and is used in spoken and written English.
Where should I place “very much” in the sentence?
Best placement: Right before the main verb phrase or at the end of the sentence.
“I am very much looking forward to hearing from you.”
“I’m looking forward to your response very much.”
“I’m looking forward very much to your response.” (awkward)
Is “I am very much looking forward” too formal for casual conversations?
It can be, depending on the tone. For casual settings, drop the “very much” or use alternatives like:
- “Can’t wait to see you!”
- “Looking forward to it!”
In emails or formal writing, however, “very much” adds courtesy and emphasis.
What are the best alternatives to “I am very much looking forward to…”?
Here are solid variations you can use, based on context:
| Alternative Phrase | Best For |
| I truly look forward to… | Formal writing |
| I can’t wait to… | Casual conversation |
| I’m eagerly anticipating… | Polite and enthusiastic |
| I’m excited about… | Friendly, informal tone |
| I’m counting down the days until… | Light-hearted or fun tone |
