Learning the right words can make your writing sound more natural, professional, and confident. One expression that often raises questions is “I am very much looking forward.” Many people use this phrase in email writing, business communication, academic writing, and everyday professional communication, but they are not always sure whether it is grammatically correct. Is It Correct to Say “I Am Very Much Looking Forward”? Grammar, Meaning, and Examples will help you understand when this expression is the right choice and how to use it with confidence.
Although the expression sounds polite, its grammar, sentence structure, and word order are important. The phrase works correctly only when it is followed by to and then a noun or gerund. Understanding this simple rule improves English grammar, English usage, writing clarity, and language fluency, helping both English learners and native English speakers avoid common mistakes in formal writing, professional emails, and other real-life situations.
In this guide, you’ll explore the meaning, grammar rules, examples, and proper usage of the expression. You’ll also learn why it works in formal English, natural English, and real-world communication, discover better alternatives when needed, and see practical tips for improving your communication skills, writing skills, and professional tone. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to use the phrase naturally in both formal and informal communication.
“I Am Very Much Looking Forward” at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Phrase | I am very much looking forward |
| Grammar Status | Correct when followed by to and an object |
| Meaning | Expresses strong anticipation or excitement |
| Tone | Polite, positive, and enthusiastic |
| Common Contexts | Emails, meetings, interviews, conversations, invitations |
| Formality | Suitable for both formal and informal English |
This phrase is widely accepted in modern English and is especially common in professional communication.
Is “I Am Very Much Looking Forward” Grammatically Correct?
The Short Answer
Yes, “I am very much looking forward” is grammatically correct when it is followed by the complete expression “to” plus a noun, pronoun, or gerund.
Correct examples:
- I am very much looking forward to meeting you.
- I am very much looking forward to our discussion.
- I am very much looking forward to it.
- I am very much looking forward to visiting London.
Incorrect examples:
- I am very much looking forward meet you.
- I am very much looking forward see you.
- I am very much looking forward tomorrow.
The incorrect examples omit the required preposition to or fail to provide a proper object.
Why “To” Is Required
One of the most important grammar rules to understand is that looking forward to is a fixed expression in English.
Here, to is not part of an infinitive. Instead, it functions as a preposition.
Because it is a preposition, it must be followed by:
- A noun
- A pronoun
- A gerund (verb + -ing)
Examples with nouns:
- I am very much looking forward to the conference.
- I am very much looking forward to the holidays.
- I am very much looking forward to your presentation.
Examples with pronouns:
- I am very much looking forward to it.
- I am very much looking forward to them.
Examples with gerunds:
- I am very much looking forward to meeting everyone.
- I am very much looking forward to learning more.
- I am very much looking forward to working together.
This is why the following sentence is incorrect:
- I am looking forward to meet you.
The correct version is:
- I am looking forward to meeting you.
Remember, after looking forward to, use a gerund, not the base form of the verb.
What Does “I Am Very Much Looking Forward” Mean?
Definition
The phrase “I am very much looking forward” expresses strong anticipation, excitement, or eagerness about a future event.
It tells the listener that you expect something positive and are waiting for it with enthusiasm.
In simple English, it means:
- I am excited about something.
- I can’t wait for something to happen.
- I eagerly expect something.
- I am happy that something is coming soon.
Examples:
- I am very much looking forward to our meeting next week.
- I am very much looking forward to hearing your ideas.
- I am very much looking forward to the vacation.
In each case, the speaker expresses positive expectations about a future event.
Difference Between “Looking Forward” and “Very Much Looking Forward”
Both expressions are grammatically correct, but they differ slightly in emphasis.
| Expression | Meaning | Level of Enthusiasm |
| I am looking forward to… | Expresses anticipation | Moderate |
| I am very much looking forward to… | Expresses stronger enthusiasm | High |
Compare these examples:
Standard:
- I am looking forward to seeing you.
Stronger:
- I am very much looking forward to seeing you.
Another example:
Standard:
- We are looking forward to the conference.
More enthusiastic:
- We are very much looking forward to the conference.
Adding very much makes the sentence warmer and more enthusiastic without changing its grammatical structure.
Because of this, business professionals often use it in polite emails.
Grammar Breakdown of “I Am Very Much Looking Forward”
Understanding each part of the phrase makes it much easier to use correctly.
Subject
The subject is I.
It tells us who is experiencing the anticipation.
Examples:
- I am very much looking forward to the meeting.
- I am very much looking forward to hearing from you.
Auxiliary Verb
The auxiliary verb is am.
It forms the present continuous tense together with looking.
Examples:
- I am looking forward.
- I am very much looking forward.
Adverb
The words very much function as an adverbial phrase.
They increase the intensity of the feeling.
Compare:
- I am looking forward to the trip.
- I am very much looking forward to the trip.
The second sentence sounds more enthusiastic.
Present Participle
The word looking is the present participle of look.
Combined with am, it creates the present continuous verb phrase:
- am looking
This structure expresses a current state of anticipation.
Preposition
The word to is a preposition.
This is one of the most commonly misunderstood parts of the phrase.
Because to functions as a preposition here, the following word must be:
- a noun
- a pronoun
- a gerund
Examples:
- to the event ✔
- to it ✔
- to meeting everyone ✔
Object
The object completes the expression.
Without it, the sentence feels incomplete.
Examples:
- I am very much looking forward to your visit.
- I am very much looking forward to hearing from you.
- I am very much looking forward to next Friday.
Every complete sentence needs something after to.
Sentence Patterns
The following table shows the most common structures.
| Structure | Example |
| I am very much looking forward to + noun | I am very much looking forward to the conference. |
| I am very much looking forward to + pronoun | I am very much looking forward to it. |
| I am very much looking forward to + gerund | I am very much looking forward to meeting you. |
These three patterns cover nearly every everyday use of the phrase.
When to Use “I Am Very Much Looking Forward”
The phrase works well whenever you want to express sincere enthusiasm about a future event.
Business Emails
Professionals frequently use the phrase because it sounds polite and positive.
Examples:
- I am very much looking forward to working with your team.
- I am very much looking forward to our meeting next Tuesday.
- I am very much looking forward to discussing the proposal.
This wording leaves a professional impression while expressing genuine interest.
Job Interviews
Candidates often use the phrase after interviews or when confirming appointments.
Examples:
- I am very much looking forward to meeting the team.
- I am very much looking forward to learning more about the position.
- I am very much looking forward to our interview tomorrow.
These sentences demonstrate enthusiasm without sounding overly informal.
Academic Communication
Students and researchers regularly use the expression when communicating with professors or colleagues.
Examples:
- I am very much looking forward to your feedback.
- I am very much looking forward to attending the seminar.
- I am very much looking forward to presenting my research.
The phrase is polite enough for academic settings while remaining friendly.
Friendly Conversations
Friends commonly use the expression when making plans.
Examples:
- I am very much looking forward to seeing everyone this weekend.
- I am very much looking forward to the concert.
- I am very much looking forward to spending time together.
It conveys genuine excitement in a natural way.
Travel Plans
People often use this phrase when discussing upcoming trips.
Examples:
- I am very much looking forward to visiting Japan.
- I am very much looking forward to our family vacation.
- I am very much looking forward to exploring the city.
Travel-related conversations frequently include this expression because anticipation is part of the experience.
Family Events
The phrase also works well when talking about holidays and celebrations.
Examples:
- I am very much looking forward to the wedding.
- I am very much looking forward to celebrating your birthday.
- I am very much looking forward to seeing my grandparents again.
Whether the event is formal or personal, the phrase communicates warmth and sincere enthusiasm.
Example Sentences Using “I Am Very Much Looking Forward”
One of the best ways to master the phrase “I am very much looking forward” is to see how it is used in different situations. The expression fits naturally into professional, academic, and personal communication, making it one of the most versatile phrases in English.
Professional Emails
In business communication, the phrase conveys enthusiasm while maintaining a professional tone.
Examples:
- I am very much looking forward to meeting you next Monday.
- I am very much looking forward to discussing the project in more detail.
- I am very much looking forward to working with your team.
- I am very much looking forward to your response.
- I am very much looking forward to attending the conference.
- I am very much looking forward to collaborating on this initiative.
- I am very much looking forward to hearing your thoughts.
This expression is especially common in thank-you emails, meeting confirmations, and follow-up messages.
Everyday Conversations
The phrase also sounds natural in casual conversations among friends and family.
Examples:
- I am very much looking forward to our weekend trip.
- I am very much looking forward to seeing everyone again.
- I am very much looking forward to tonight’s movie.
- I am very much looking forward to trying the new restaurant.
- I am very much looking forward to your visit.
- I am very much looking forward to the holidays.
Although “I’m looking forward to…” is more common in everyday speech, adding very much emphasizes excitement.
Meetings
Business meetings often end with positive statements about future collaboration.
Examples:
- I am very much looking forward to our next discussion.
- I am very much looking forward to implementing these ideas.
- I am very much looking forward to seeing the final results.
- I am very much looking forward to reviewing your proposal.
- I am very much looking forward to continuing our partnership.
These examples create a positive and cooperative tone.
Job Interviews
After an interview, candidates frequently use the phrase in thank-you emails.
Examples:
- I am very much looking forward to hearing from you.
- I am very much looking forward to the opportunity to join your organization.
- I am very much looking forward to contributing to your team.
- I am very much looking forward to discussing the next steps.
Recruiters often appreciate this wording because it demonstrates professionalism and genuine interest.
Holidays
People naturally express anticipation when talking about vacations and holidays.
Examples:
- I am very much looking forward to Christmas.
- I am very much looking forward to our summer vacation.
- I am very much looking forward to spending time with my family.
- I am very much looking forward to relaxing after a busy month.
The phrase highlights positive expectations about upcoming events.
Celebrations
Birthdays, weddings, anniversaries, and reunions are all suitable occasions for this expression.
Examples:
- I am very much looking forward to celebrating your birthday.
- I am very much looking forward to attending the wedding.
- I am very much looking forward to our family reunion.
- I am very much looking forward to celebrating this achievement together.
These examples sound warm, sincere, and enthusiastic.
Common Mistakes
Even though “I am very much looking forward” is straightforward, several common mistakes appear frequently among English learners.
Omitting “To”
The biggest mistake is forgetting the preposition to.
Incorrect:
- I am very much looking forward meeting you.
Correct:
- I am very much looking forward to meeting you.
Always remember that looking forward to is a fixed expression.
Using an Infinitive After “To”
Many learners assume that to introduces an infinitive.
Incorrect:
- I am very much looking forward to meet you.
Correct:
- I am very much looking forward to meeting you.
Since to functions as a preposition here, it must be followed by a gerund, not the base form of the verb.
More correct examples:
- Looking forward to hearing from you.
- Looking forward to working together.
- Looking forward to learning more.
Forgetting the Object
The phrase is incomplete without something after to.
Incomplete:
- I am very much looking forward.
Complete:
- I am very much looking forward to the conference.
- I am very much looking forward to seeing you.
- I am very much looking forward to your reply.
Always finish the expression with an appropriate noun, pronoun, or gerund.
Overusing “Very Much”
Although very much adds enthusiasm, it isn’t always necessary.
Compare:
- I am looking forward to seeing you.
- I am very much looking forward to seeing you.
Both are correct.
In casual conversations, the shorter version often sounds more natural, while the longer version is common in professional or formal communication.
Read More: Mastering the Subtleties of “My Question Is”
Formal and Informal Alternatives
Sometimes you may want to vary your wording. English provides several alternatives depending on the situation.
| Alternative | Best Used In |
| I look forward to | Formal emails and letters |
| I’m excited about | Informal conversations |
| I can’t wait to | Casual English |
| I’m eager to | Professional writing |
| I’m delighted to | Formal communication |
| I’m anticipating | Formal or literary contexts |
Here are examples of each alternative:
- I look forward to hearing from you.
- I’m excited about our trip.
- I can’t wait to see everyone.
- I’m eager to begin the project.
- I’m delighted to accept your invitation.
- I’m anticipating a productive discussion.
Each expression communicates anticipation, but the tone varies from formal to informal.
Tips for Using the Phrase Naturally
To sound more fluent, keep these practical tips in mind.
- Always include to after looking forward.
- Use a gerund when the next word is a verb.
- Keep your sentence concise.
- Match your level of enthusiasm to the situation.
- Avoid repeating the phrase several times in the same email.
- Use very much only when you genuinely want to emphasize excitement.
- Proofread professional emails for grammar and punctuation.
- Choose simpler alternatives if the context is informal.
Following these tips will help your English sound more natural and polished.
Real-World Usage
Native English speakers regularly use “I am very much looking forward” in both spoken and written communication.
Business Correspondence
Professionals often write:
I am very much looking forward to working with you.
This leaves a positive impression and expresses enthusiasm for future collaboration.
Customer Service
Support representatives may write:
We are very much looking forward to assisting you.
This creates a friendly and welcoming tone.
Interviews
Candidates often conclude thank-you emails with:
I am very much looking forward to hearing from you.
This sentence expresses appreciation while reinforcing interest in the opportunity.
Invitations
Hosts frequently write:
We are very much looking forward to celebrating with you.
The wording makes invitations sound warm and personal.
Academic Settings
Professors, students, and researchers may use the phrase in emails and conference correspondence.
Example:
I am very much looking forward to presenting my research.
Everyday Conversations
Friends and family naturally use the expression before vacations, birthdays, reunions, and other enjoyable events.
Its versatility explains why it remains one of the most frequently used expressions for expressing anticipation.
Conclusion
“I am very much looking forward” is a grammatically correct expression when it is followed by to and a noun or gerund. It is a polite and professional way to show anticipation, making it a great choice for emails, business communication, academic writing, and other formal situations. The key is to use the complete structure rather than the phrase by itself.
By understanding the grammar rules, sentence structure, and proper usage, you can write with more confidence and avoid common mistakes. Whether you are an English learner or a native English speaker, using this expression correctly will help your writing sound more natural, professional, and clear.
FAQs
1. Is “I am very much looking forward” grammatically correct?
Yes. It is grammatically correct when it is followed by to and a noun or gerund, such as “I am very much looking forward to meeting you.”
2. Is it better to say “looking forward” or “very much looking forward”?
Both are correct. “Very much looking forward” adds extra enthusiasm and is often used in professional emails and formal communication when you want to sound warmer and more positive.
3. Can I use “I am very much looking forward” in a business email?
Yes. It is widely accepted in business communication and professional writing. Just make sure you complete the phrase, for example, “I am very much looking forward to your reply.”
4. Why does the phrase need “to” after “looking forward”?
The expression “look forward to” is a fixed phrase in English. The word “to” is part of the expression and should be followed by a noun or gerund, not a base verb.
5. What are some alternatives to “I am very much looking forward”?
You can use expressions such as “I look forward to,” “I can’t wait to,” “I’m excited about,” “I’m eager to,” or “I’m pleased to”, depending on whether the situation is formal or informal.
