Pronunciation: [lˈʊks ˈaftə] (IPA) 
The phrase "looks after" means to take care of or attend to someone or something. The spelling of this phrase can be explained in IPA phonetic transcription as "lʊks ˈɑːftər." The first syllable "lʊks" is pronounced with a short "u" sound, followed by the "k" and "s" sounds. The second word "after" is pronounced with a long "a" sound and the "f" and "t" sounds. Together, these sounds create the commonly used phrase "looks after."
"Looks after" is a phrasal verb that is commonly used to describe the action of caring for, attending to, or taking responsibility for someone or something. It implies a sense of guardianship or oversight in the context of ensuring the well-being, safety, or maintenance of someone or something.
When referring to the care of a person, "looks after" suggests assuming a protective or nurturing role, often involving providing assistance, guidance, or support. This includes looking out for their physical, emotional, or social needs, and monitoring their overall welfare. For example, a babysitter looks after children while their parents are away, ensuring their safety and providing for their needs.
In the case of objects or possessions, "looks after" signifies taking care or maintaining them, ensuring their proper functioning, cleanliness, or preservation. For instance, someone might look after their garden by regularly watering the plants and removing weeds, or look after their car by servicing it regularly and keeping it clean.
In a broader sense, "looks after" can also refer to the act of assuming responsibility for a particular task, duty, or project. This includes taking charge of its progress, well-being, or successful completion. For example, a manager looks after a team of employees by overseeing their work and providing guidance to ensure productivity and achievement of goals.
Overall, "looks after" encompasses an array of actions involving care, guidance, and responsibility, highlighting the act of overseeing and tending to the needs or well-being of someone or something.
The word "looks after" is a verb phrase that consists of two words: "looks" and "after". Each word has its own etymology.
1. "Looks": The word "looks" is derived from the Middle English word "loken", which means "to see, observe, or behold". It has Old English and Old Norse origins. The word "loken" is related to the Old High German word "luogen", which means "to see", and the Gothic word "lus", which means "sight".
2. "After": The word "after" has a complex etymology. It is derived from the Old English word "æfter", which means "behind, following, or next". "Æfter" is related to the Old High German word "aftar" and the Gothic word "aftaro", both of which have similar meanings.
