When we say we're seeking for help from God. We look up to him. Is this correct ?
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[to seek help from someone]– LambieFeb 8, 2020 at 21:38
1 Answer
The word to be careful of here is "up". To look up to X is an idiom meaning "to have respect or admiration for X," and implies that X is seen as something of a role model.
Omitting the word "up", to look to X is an idiom with the meaning you want. It means to rely on X for help. Usually with this phrase you would also add what you are hoping for. For example, "I looked to my parents for support", or "He looked to his friends for help."
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Agreed, this is an interesting question to illustrate the subtle distinction between "look to" and "look up to".– AndrewOct 4, 2016 at 15:00
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2I think I would add that, although this is a very good and correct answer, you will likely be understood either way, given the right context. If someone said to me, "I trust in God. When life gets tough, I look up to him", I wouldn't be confused. I think this is because in the context of God/religion, "up" is often used to mean "toward Heaven" and it would probably be understood this way due to the context. Still, it is much better to say "look to him" instead.– elmer007Oct 4, 2016 at 19:57