The phrase “I am very much looking forward” can sound unusually formal at first. However, the grammar behind it is straightforward once you understand how look forward to works. The key issue isn’t whether very much belongs in the sentence. It does. The bigger question is what must come after to and why the sentence can feel incomplete when you stop at “I am very much looking forward.”
In standard English, look forward to expresses positive anticipation of something that will happen. The Cambridge Dictionary explains that “to” functions as a preposition in this expression, so a noun phrase or an -ing form must follow it.
That gives you a reliable pattern:
I am very much looking forward to + noun/noun phrase or -ing form.
For example:
- I am very much looking forward to the conference.
- I am very much looking forward to meeting you.
- I am very much looking forward to your reply.
- I am very much looking forward to working with your team.
So, is it correct to say “I am very much looking forward”? Yes, but only as the beginning of a complete construction. On its own, it normally feels unfinished because the listener or reader expects to learn what you are looking forward to.
What Does Mean?
At its heart, I am very much looking forward to means that you feel strong anticipation about something expected in the future. The phrase can communicate pleasure, enthusiasm, eagerness, or sincere interest without sounding overly emotional.
Consider the difference:
| Expression | Main effect |
| I am looking forward to the meeting. | Positive anticipation |
| I am very much looking forward to the meeting. | Stronger anticipation |
| I am excited about the meeting. | More direct emotional excitement |
| I can’t wait for the meeting. | More informal enthusiasm |
The addition of very much increases the strength of the feeling. It doesn’t create a new grammatical structure. Instead, it adds emphasis to the anticipation already expressed by looking forward to.
The Literal Meaning
The individual words can make the phrase seem more complicated than it really is.
I am identifies the speaker and establishes the present state. Very much intensifies the feeling. Looking forward to forms the fixed expression that means anticipating something positively.
You shouldn’t interpret looking forward literally as physically turning your eyes toward something in front of you. In this expression, look forward to has an idiomatic meaning.
For example:
I am very much looking forward to our vacation.
The speaker isn’t literally looking toward the vacation. The sentence means the speaker feels strong anticipation about the vacation.
This distinction matters because English contains many expressions whose meanings extend beyond the individual words. Once you recognize look forward to as a fixed expression, its structure becomes much easier to remember.
The Emotional Meaning
The phrase also carries a particular tone. It usually sounds positive, courteous, and reasonably polished.
For example, imagine two people responding to an invitation:
“Thanks for inviting me. I’m looking forward to seeing everyone.”
That sounds friendly and natural.
Now consider:
“Thank you for the invitation. I am very much looking forward to attending.”
The second sentence sounds more formal and deliberate. It would fit comfortably in a professional email or formal reply.
Very much can therefore communicate more than simple anticipation. It can signal genuine enthusiasm while maintaining a controlled, professional tone.
That makes the expression useful when you want to sound interested without saying something as casual as “I can’t wait!”
Why “Very Much” Adds Extra Emphasis
Very much acts as an intensifier. It strengthens the degree of anticipation without changing the basic meaning of looking forward to.
Compare these sentences:
- I am looking forward to meeting you.
- I am very much looking forward to meeting you.
Both sentences are correct. The second one simply places more emphasis on the speaker’s anticipation.
You can think of very much as turning the volume up slightly. The underlying message stays the same, but the feeling becomes more noticeable.
This is particularly useful in professional communication:
I am very much looking forward to discussing the proposal with you.
The sentence sounds enthusiastic while remaining measured. It doesn’t have the casual energy of “I’m really excited to talk about the proposal.”
Still, very much isn’t required. In many everyday situations, I’m looking forward to it sounds lighter and more natural.
Grammar Breakdown
The phrase becomes much easier when you separate its grammatical parts.
I am very much looking forward to the meeting contains several components that work together:
| Part | Function |
| I | Subject pronoun |
| am | Present-tense form of be |
| very much | Intensifying adverbial phrase |
| looking | Present participle |
| forward | Part of the fixed expression |
| to | Preposition |
| the meeting | Noun phrase functioning as the object of to |
This structure explains why several common mistakes occur. English learners often see to and automatically expect a base verb such as meet, go, or discuss.
That assumption works with an infinitive:
I want to meet you.
But it doesn’t work with look forward to:
I am looking forward to meeting you.
The two to forms look identical, but they perform different grammatical jobs.
Subject + Be Verb + Adverb + Present Participle
The opening structure is:
Subject + be + very much + present participle
In the example:
I + am + very much + looking
The word looking uses the -ing form because it appears in the present progressive construction am looking.
The expression then continues with forward to and its object:
I am very much looking forward to the meeting.
Or:
I am very much looking forward to meeting you.
This distinction helps explain why the phrase isn’t simply a collection of interchangeable words. Each element has a particular grammatical role.
Why “Looking Forward” Is a Fixed Expression
The phrase look forward to functions as a fixed multi-word expression. Its meaning is connected to the entire construction rather than to look, forward, and to separately.
You can use it with different subjects and tenses:
- I look forward to hearing from you.
- She looks forward to the event.
- We are looking forward to meeting your team.
- They looked forward to the trip.
- He is looking forward to starting his new job.
The basic relationship remains stable.
Cambridge Dictionary specifically notes that look forward to means being pleased or excited that something will happen and that the expression takes a noun phrase or an -ing form after to.
That’s why you shouldn’t rearrange the core expression simply to make the sentence sound different.
For example:
Natural:
I am very much looking forward to meeting you.
Awkward:
I am looking very much forward to meeting you.
The second version disrupts the normal pattern. The first one reads smoothly because very much sits naturally between am and looking.
Why “To” Is a Preposition Instead of an Infinitive
This is the most important grammar point in the entire phrase.
English uses to in two major ways that learners often confuse.
First, to can introduce an infinitive:
I hope to meet you.
Here, to meet is an infinitive.
Second, to can function as a preposition:
I am looking forward to meeting you.
Here, to is a preposition. Therefore, the word that follows it should function as its object.
That object can be a noun:
I am looking forward to the meeting.
It can also be a pronoun:
I am looking forward to it.
Or it can be a gerund or -ing form functioning nominally:
I am looking forward to meeting you.
The important point is simple:
After “look forward to,” don’t automatically use the base verb.
This is why “I am looking forward to meet you” is incorrect in standard English. The correct form is “I am looking forward to meeting you.”
What Should Come After “To”?
You have several natural options.
A noun:
I am very much looking forward to the conference.
A noun phrase:
I am very much looking forward to our next meeting.
A pronoun:
I am very much looking forward to it.
An -ing form:
I am very much looking forward to working with you.
An -ing clause:
I am very much looking forward to seeing how the project develops.
This flexibility makes the construction useful across many settings.
| After to | Example |
| Noun | looking forward to the event |
| Noun phrase | looking forward to the annual meeting |
| Pronoun | looking forward to it |
| -ing form | looking forward to meeting you |
| -ing clause | looking forward to working with the team |
A quick test can help when you’re unsure. Ask:
Looking forward to what?
If the answer is the meeting, your visit, it, or meeting you, the structure is working correctly.
If the sentence ends at “I am very much looking forward,” the reader naturally expects more information.
Why Sometimes Considered Incorrect
A small but important distinction prevents confusion here.
The phrase itself isn’t grammatically wrong. The problem arises when someone treats “I am very much looking forward” as a complete sentence.
Compare:
I am very much looking forward to the conference.
Complete.
I am very much looking forward to meeting you.
Complete.
I am very much looking forward.
Usually incomplete.
The final version leaves the reader waiting for the object of to. The construction has started but hasn’t reached its natural endpoint.
Some online grammar discussions describe the complete expression as a phrasal-prepositional verb because look, forward, and to operate together. The important practical rule remains the same: the construction needs something after to.
Leaving Out “To”
One common error involves dropping to completely.
❌ I am very much looking forward meeting you.
The sentence needs to:
✅ I am very much looking forward to meeting you.
Here, to isn’t optional. It belongs to the fixed expression look forward to.
The same principle applies when the object is a noun:
❌ I am looking forward the conference.
✅ I am looking forward to the conference.
A missing to can make an otherwise polished sentence sound clearly incorrect.
Using an Infinitive Instead of a Gerund
Another frequent mistake appears after to.
❌ I am looking forward to meet you.
✅ I am looking forward to meeting you.
The temptation comes from familiar infinitive structures such as:
I want to meet you.
But want to meet and look forward to meeting follow different grammatical patterns.
The first uses to as part of an infinitive. The second uses to as a preposition.
Once you learn that difference, the correct form becomes much easier to produce naturally.
Confusing Formal English With Incorrect English
The phrase can sound formal. That doesn’t make it incorrect.
This distinction matters because learners sometimes reject a grammatically sound expression simply because they wouldn’t use it in casual conversation.
For example:
I am very much looking forward to our discussion.
This sounds polished and professional.
A friend might instead say:
I’m really looking forward to it.
Neither sentence has a grammar problem. They simply belong to different levels of formality.
Formal doesn’t mean wrong. Casual doesn’t automatically mean better. Good writing depends on matching the expression to the audience and situation.
That principle becomes especially useful in emails, workplace communication, academic correspondence, invitations, and other situations where tone matters almost as much as grammar.
When to Use
The phrase “I am very much looking forward to” works best when you want to express genuine anticipation while keeping your language polished. It fits naturally in professional emails, formal replies, academic communication, invitations, and some everyday conversations. The choice depends less on grammar and more on tone, audience, and context.
Professional Emails
In a professional email, I am very much looking forward to can communicate enthusiasm without becoming overly casual. It works particularly well when you’re discussing a meeting, interview, project, presentation, partnership, or upcoming conversation.
For example:
I am very much looking forward to discussing the proposal with you.
This sentence sounds positive and respectful. It tells the recipient that you value the upcoming discussion.
Another useful example is:
I am very much looking forward to working with your team.
This wording can work well after accepting a position or beginning a new professional relationship. It creates a friendly impression while maintaining a businesslike tone.
However, you don’t need very much in every email. If the message already sounds warm, the simpler I am looking forward to may feel more natural.
| Situation | Suitable wording |
| Formal email | I am very much looking forward to meeting you. |
| Standard business email | I am looking forward to our discussion. |
| Friendly professional email | I’m really looking forward to working with you. |
| Very casual message | I can’t wait to see you. |
A good rule is to consider the relationship first. When you’re writing to someone you don’t know well, a measured expression often works better than highly enthusiastic wording.
Business Meetings
Business meetings provide another natural setting for the phrase. You might use it before a conference, negotiation, presentation, interview, training session, or strategic discussion.
For example:
I am very much looking forward to meeting the marketing team next week.
The sentence communicates anticipation without sounding exaggerated.
You can also use the phrase when the meeting carries particular importance:
I am very much looking forward to discussing the next stage of the project.
Here, very much adds a little extra weight to the speaker’s interest.
Still, context matters. Saying “I am very much looking forward to every meeting” may sound excessive if you use it repeatedly. Strong expressions lose some impact when they appear in every message.
For important meetings, the phrase works best when it connects naturally to something specific:
- I am very much looking forward to our discussion.
- I am very much looking forward to hearing your ideas.
- I am very much looking forward to meeting the new team.
- I am very much looking forward to discussing the proposal.
Specificity makes the sentence sound more purposeful.
Academic Communication
Academic communication often requires a careful balance between warmth and formality. I am very much looking forward to can fit that balance when you’re communicating with professors, researchers, academic departments, conference organizers, or fellow students.
For example:
I am very much looking forward to attending the research conference.
Or:
I am very much looking forward to discussing my research with you.
The expression can sound appropriate in an academic email because it shows interest while avoiding overly casual language.
However, academic writing itself doesn’t always need this phrase. A research paper usually requires a different style from an email to a professor. In formal academic prose, direct statements often work better than conversational anticipation.
For example, an email can naturally say:
I am very much looking forward to your feedback.
A research paper would rarely need such a sentence.
That distinction helps you avoid a common mistake: assuming that one version of “formal English” works equally well in every formal setting.
Invitations and Replies
The phrase also works nicely when responding to invitations.
Suppose someone invites you to a wedding, conference dinner, graduation celebration, or professional event. You could write:
Thank you for the invitation. I am very much looking forward to attending.
This sounds gracious and enthusiastic.
You can also make the sentence more personal:
Thank you for inviting us. We are very much looking forward to celebrating with you.
Notice that attending and celebrating use -ing forms after to. That’s because to functions as a preposition in look forward to.
This is one reason the phrase deserves attention. It combines a familiar expression with a grammatical pattern that often causes mistakes.
Everyday Conversations
You can use I am very much looking forward to in everyday conversation. Yet it usually sounds more deliberate than the shorter alternatives people use with friends and family.
For example:
I am very much looking forward to our trip.
This is perfectly correct. It might sound natural when you’re speaking seriously about something you’ve been anticipating for a long time.
With close friends, however, you might naturally say:
I’m really looking forward to our trip.
Or:
I can’t wait for our trip.
The difference isn’t correctness. It’s conversational style.
Very much tends to add a formal or emphatic flavor. That’s useful when you want your enthusiasm to sound composed rather than spontaneous.
When You Should Avoid
Knowing when not to use an expression can be just as useful as knowing when to use it. Although I am very much looking forward to is grammatically sound, it isn’t the best choice for every situation.
The main issue is usually register. Register means the level or style of language appropriate for a particular situation.
A phrase that works beautifully in a formal email may sound stiff in a quick text message.
Casual Text Messages
In casual texting, shorter expressions usually feel more natural.
Imagine a friend tells you that you’ll meet for dinner tomorrow. A response such as:
I am very much looking forward to seeing you tomorrow.
is grammatically fine. Yet it may sound unusually formal for a quick message between friends.
A more natural response could be:
I’m really looking forward to seeing you!
Or:
Can’t wait to see you!
The shorter versions match the relaxed nature of texting.
This doesn’t mean very much becomes incorrect in casual conversation. It simply becomes a stylistic choice that may feel heavier than necessary.
Situations Where a Shorter Expression Sounds Better
Sometimes the strongest writing choice is the simplest one.
Compare:
I am very much looking forward to receiving your response.
with:
I look forward to hearing from you.
Both can work in professional correspondence. The second feels more concise.
You could also write:
I’m looking forward to it.
This version works when the context already makes the expected event clear.
A useful comparison looks like this:
| Longer expression | Shorter alternative |
| I am very much looking forward to the event. | I’m looking forward to the event. |
| I am very much looking forward to meeting you. | I look forward to meeting you. |
| I am very much looking forward to hearing from you. | I look forward to hearing from you. |
| I am very much looking forward to the trip. | I can’t wait for the trip. |
The shorter option often wins when the surrounding message already communicates enthusiasm.
Avoiding Overly Formal Writing
Over-formality can create distance. If every sentence sounds ceremonial, your writing may feel less personal even when the grammar remains flawless.
For example, imagine a coworker sends a friendly message:
“Great! Let’s grab coffee next Tuesday.”
Responding with:
I am very much looking forward to engaging in this forthcoming social interaction.
would be technically understandable but painfully unnatural.
The problem isn’t grammar. The problem is register.
Natural English depends on choosing language that fits the moment. I am very much looking forward to sits toward the formal or emphatic side of the spectrum. You should use it when that tone serves a purpose.
A practical scale looks like this:
Formal → neutral → casual
I am very much looking forward to meeting you.
I am looking forward to meeting you.
I’m really looking forward to meeting you.
I can’t wait to meet you.
All four communicate anticipation. Their social feel changes.
Correct Examples in Real Sentences
Examples make the grammar easier to remember because you can see how the construction behaves in real situations. The most important feature remains consistent: look forward to needs an appropriate object after to.
Workplace Examples
Workplace communication gives you many opportunities to use this construction naturally.
Example 1:
I am very much looking forward to joining the team next month.
Here, joining follows the preposition to.
Example 2:
I am very much looking forward to discussing the project with you.
The phrase expresses enthusiasm about an upcoming professional discussion.
Example 3:
We are very much looking forward to welcoming you to the company.
The subject changes from I to we, but the basic construction remains intact.
Example 4:
She is very much looking forward to starting her new role.
The be verb changes to is because the subject is she.
These examples show that the phrase isn’t tied to one particular person or situation.
Student Examples
Students may use the expression in emails to instructors, applications, group projects, or academic events.
I am very much looking forward to attending the seminar.
I am very much looking forward to learning more about the subject.
We are very much looking forward to presenting our project.
I am very much looking forward to receiving your feedback.
These sentences maintain a respectful tone while showing genuine interest.
In a message to a close classmate, however, a simpler option might sound more natural:
I’m really looking forward to working on this together.
The grammar remains correct in both cases. The difference comes from audience and context.
Travel and Event Examples
Travel plans naturally invite expressions of anticipation.
I am very much looking forward to visiting New York this summer.
We are very much looking forward to the festival.
I am very much looking forward to seeing the city for the first time.
They are very much looking forward to attending the concert.
Notice how the construction works with both nouns and -ing forms:
- to the festival — noun phrase
- to visiting New York — gerund or -ing form
- to seeing the city — -ing form
- to attending the concert — -ing form
This gives you a dependable pattern rather than a sentence you simply need to memorize.
Family and Personal Examples
The expression can also appear in personal situations when the speaker wants to emphasize sincere anticipation.
I am very much looking forward to seeing my family.
We are very much looking forward to spending the holidays together.
She is very much looking forward to her birthday celebration.
I am very much looking forward to hearing your news.
In close personal conversations, these sentences may sound somewhat formal. Yet they remain completely grammatical.
If the setting is relaxed, you might naturally shorten them:
I’m really looking forward to seeing everyone.
Or:
I can’t wait to see everyone.
The choice depends on the mood you want to create.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Most errors involving this phrase come from misunderstanding the role of to or changing the usual word order.
The good news is that the mistakes are predictable. Once you recognize the pattern, you can spot them quickly.
Mistake: Missing “To”
One of the most common errors is leaving out to.
❌ I am looking forward meeting you.
✅ I am looking forward to meeting you.
The preposition belongs to the expression. You can’t normally remove it.
The same problem appears with nouns:
❌ We are looking forward the conference.
✅ We are looking forward to the conference.
Think of look forward to as one grammatical unit. Keeping those three words together prevents many errors.
Mistake: Using the Base Verb
This mistake happens when writers treat to as an infinitive marker.
❌ I am looking forward to meet you.
✅ I am looking forward to meeting you.
The correct form uses meeting because to acts as a preposition.
The distinction becomes clearer when you compare two structures:
| Structure | Correct example |
| Infinitive | I hope to meet you. |
| Prepositional to | I look forward to meeting you. |
The words look similar, but their grammar differs.
Mistake: Incorrect Word Order
Writers sometimes move very much into an unnatural position.
❌ I am looking very much forward to meeting you.
✅ I am very much looking forward to meeting you.
The second version follows the normal pattern more smoothly.
You can also remove very much entirely:
I am looking forward to meeting you.
Both versions are correct.
The important point is that very much works naturally before the present participle looking in this construction.
Mistake: Omitting “Much”
This isn’t actually a grammatical mistake if you mean to use the shorter expression.
I am looking forward to meeting you.
That sentence is completely correct.
The issue only arises when someone intends to use the intensified phrase but changes it incorrectly.
For example:
❌ I am very looking forward to meeting you.
✅ I am very much looking forward to meeting you.
Very and very much don’t work identically here. The natural expression uses very much to intensify the verb phrase.
Quick Correction Guide
When you’re editing a sentence containing I am very much looking forward, check these points:
| Check | Incorrect | Correct |
| Include to | looking forward meeting | looking forward to meeting |
| Use an -ing form after prepositional to | looking forward to meet | looking forward to meeting |
| Keep normal word order | looking very much forward | very much looking forward |
| Don’t force very alone | very looking forward | very much looking forward |
| Use a noun when appropriate | looking forward to attend the event | looking forward to the event |
| Use a pronoun when context is clear | looking forward it | looking forward to it |
A quick editing habit can save you time. Find looking forward first. Then check the word immediately after it.If you see to, ask what follows.If a noun or -ing form follows, the construction will usually be on the right track.If a base verb follows, pause and check the grammar.
That simple check catches one of the most frequent errors associated with this expression.
Better Alternatives
“I am very much looking forward” is grammatically correct, but it is not always the best choice for every situation. English gives you several alternatives that can sound more natural, direct, enthusiastic, or professional.
The best expression depends on your audience and the level of excitement you want to show. A formal email may need a polished phrase, while a message to a friend can be much shorter.
Formal Alternatives
If you are writing a business email, academic message, professional invitation, or formal letter, these alternatives work well:
- I am looking forward to…
- I very much look forward to…
- I look forward to…
- I eagerly anticipate…
- I am pleased to anticipate…
- I anticipate…
For example:I am looking forward to meeting you next week.I very much look forward to discussing the proposal with you.I look forward to hearing your thoughts.
The simple “I look forward to” is often the safest professional option. It sounds polished without feeling unnecessarily elaborate.
Informal Alternatives
In casual conversations, you usually do not need the full formal structure.
You could say:
- I’m really looking forward to it.
- I’m excited about it.
- I’m excited to see you.
- I can’t wait!
- I’m really excited.
- I’m looking forward to it!
For example, compare these two messages:
Formal:
I am very much looking forward to seeing you at the conference.
Informal:
I’m really looking forward to seeing you!
Both are correct. The difference is mainly tone and register.
Stronger Professional Alternatives
Sometimes you want to express strong interest without sounding overly emotional. In that case, phrases such as “I eagerly anticipate” or “I am excited to discuss” may work better.
For example:I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to work with your team.I am excited to discuss the next stage of the project.I look forward to exploring this opportunity further.
These alternatives can make your writing feel confident and purposeful. They also prevent you from repeating “I am very much looking forward to” throughout a long email.
“I Am Very Much Looking Forward” vs. Similar Expressions
Several English expressions communicate anticipation, but they do not have exactly the same meaning or tone.
Understanding these small differences can help you choose the phrase that fits your sentence.
| Expression | Main idea | Typical tone |
| I am looking forward to | Pleasant anticipation | Neutral to formal |
| I am very much looking forward to | Strong pleasant anticipation | Formal, emphatic |
| I am excited about | Strong enthusiasm | Neutral, conversational |
| I am eager to | Strong desire to do something | Professional or neutral |
| I can’t wait to | Very strong excitement | Informal |
| I anticipate | Expectation of something | Formal |
Looking Forward vs. Excited About
Looking forward to usually expresses positive anticipation about something expected to happen.
I am looking forward to the vacation.
Excited about puts more emphasis on enthusiasm or emotional excitement.
I am excited about the vacation.
The two expressions often overlap. However, “looking forward to” tends to sound more restrained and polite.
That difference matters in professional communication.
For example:
I am looking forward to meeting the new clients.
sounds polished and professional.
By contrast:
I am excited about meeting the new clients.
sounds warmer and more enthusiastic.
Neither is wrong. Your choice depends on the impression you want to create.
Looking Forward vs. Eager To
Eager to is another useful alternative, but its grammar is different.
With look forward to, use a noun or an -ing form after to:
I am looking forward to meeting you.
With eager, use to + base verb:
I am eager to meet you.
This distinction is important because learners sometimes transfer the grammar from one expression to another.
Correct:
I am looking forward to meeting you.
Correct:
I am eager to meet you.
Incorrect:
I am looking forward to meet you.
The word to does not behave the same way in these two constructions.
Looking Forward vs. Can’t Wait
Can’t wait to is much more informal.
For example:
I can’t wait to see you!
This sounds natural in a text message, personal email, or conversation with someone you know well.
In a formal business email, however, “I look forward to” is usually more appropriate:
I look forward to seeing you at the meeting.
Using “I can’t wait” in a formal context is not necessarily grammatically wrong. It simply creates a much more casual and enthusiastic tone.
Looking Forward vs. Anticipate
Anticipate can express expectation, but it does not always carry the same warm feeling as look forward to.
Compare:
I am looking forward to the conference.
I anticipate the conference.
The first sentence clearly suggests positive anticipation. The second can sound more neutral and formal.
Anticipate is especially useful when discussing expected events, outcomes, problems, or developments.
We anticipate increased demand next quarter.
That meaning is different from the personal enthusiasm expressed by:
We are looking forward to the new opportunity.
Is “Very Much” Necessary?
No. “Very much” is optional.
The sentence remains completely grammatical without it:
I am looking forward to meeting you.
Adding “very much” increases emphasis:
I am very much looking forward to meeting you.
The difference is subtle but meaningful.
“I Am Looking Forward” Without “Very Much”
The shorter version is usually more natural in everyday professional English.I am looking forward to our meeting.I am looking forward to hearing from you.I am looking forward to working with you.
These sentences sound clear, polite, and confident.
You do not need an extra intensifier to make “look forward to” express anticipation. The expression already contains that meaning.
“I Am Very Much Looking Forward” With Extra Emphasis
Adding “very much” makes the anticipation stronger.
I am very much looking forward to meeting everyone.
This can be useful when you genuinely want to emphasize enthusiasm or appreciation.
For example, after receiving an invitation:
Thank you for the invitation. I am very much looking forward to attending the event.
The phrase can make the response sound warmer and more appreciative.
Still, repeated use may make your writing feel overly formal. One well-placed expression is often enough.
Which Version Sounds More Natural?
For most modern American English situations, “I am looking forward to” is the more straightforward choice.
“I am very much looking forward to” is also correct. It simply carries more emphasis and can sound more formal.
Consider this comparison:
| Sentence | Effect |
| I am looking forward to meeting you. | Polite and natural |
| I am very much looking forward to meeting you. | More emphatic and formal |
| I’m really looking forward to meeting you. | Warm and conversational |
| I can’t wait to meet you. | Very enthusiastic and informal |
The key is not to treat one version as universally better. Context determines the best choice.
Formal vs. Informal Usage
The phrase “I am very much looking forward” fits best when your writing needs a respectful or polished tone.
It can work particularly well in:
- professional emails
- formal invitations
- business correspondence
- academic communication
- conference communication
- interviews
- official replies
- customer-service messages
For example:
I am very much looking forward to discussing the project with you.
This sounds appropriate in a professional setting.
In a casual conversation, however, the phrase may feel unnecessarily formal.
A friend would probably say:
I’m really looking forward to it!
rather than:
I am very much looking forward to it.
Both sentences communicate positive anticipation. The second simply sounds more formal.
Why Register Matters
Register refers to the level of formality used in language.
You change your register depending on who you are speaking to and why you are communicating.
A message to your manager might say:
I am looking forward to discussing this matter with you.
A message to a close friend might say:
I’m excited to talk about it!
A formal academic response might say:
I am very much looking forward to attending the seminar.
A family message might say:
I can’t wait to see everyone!
Choosing the right register makes your English sound more natural. Good grammar is not only about avoiding errors. It is also about selecting language that fits the situation.
Quick Grammar Formula
The structure becomes easy to remember once you break it into parts.
Basic Formula
Subject + be verb + very much + looking forward to + noun or -ing form
For example:
I + am + very much + looking forward to + the meeting.
Or:
I + am + very much + looking forward to + meeting you.
Here is the structure in detail:
| Part | Example |
| Subject | I |
| Be verb | am |
| Intensifier | very much |
| Main expression | looking forward |
| Preposition | to |
| Object | the meeting |
| Or gerund | meeting you |
The most important point is the final part.
After “looking forward to,” use a noun, noun phrase, or -ing form.
Correct:
I am very much looking forward to the interview.
Correct:
I am very much looking forward to meeting the team.
Correct:
I am very much looking forward to working with you.
Incorrect:
I am very much looking forward to meet the team.
The final verb must take the -ing form when a verb follows look forward to.
A Simple Memory Trick
Think of “look forward to” as one complete expression.
Do not treat its to like the to in “to meet.”
Compare:
I want to meet you.
I look forward to meeting you.
The first to introduces an infinitive. The second to functions as a preposition.
That small grammatical difference explains one of the most common mistakes with this expression.
Expert Tips for Using Naturally
A grammatically correct phrase can still sound awkward if you use it in the wrong place. These practical tips can help you make the expression feel natural.
Match the Phrase to Your Audience
Think about the person reading your message.
If you are writing to a client, professor, interviewer, or business partner, “I am very much looking forward to…” may fit naturally.
If you are texting a close friend, “I’m really looking forward to…” will usually sound more relaxed.
Do Not Add “To” Twice
The expression already contains the necessary to.
Correct:
I am looking forward to meeting you.
Avoid:
I am looking forward to to meeting you.
There should be only one to before the -ing form.
Avoid Overusing “Very Much”
The phrase is useful when emphasis matters. It does not need to appear in every professional email.
If every paragraph contains “very much,” your writing may begin to sound repetitive or overly formal.
Often, this is enough:
I am looking forward to hearing from you.
You can save “very much” for situations where you genuinely want stronger emphasis.
Check What Comes After “To”
Before sending your sentence, look at the word after “to.”
If it is a verb, ask whether it has the -ing ending.looking forward to hearing ✓looking forward to speaking ✓looking forward to working ✓looking forward to meet ✗
This quick check can prevent one of the most noticeable grammar mistakes associated with the expression.
Real-World Case Study: A Small Grammar Change, A Better Impression
Small grammar choices can change how professional, natural, or confident a sentence sounds. The expression “I am very much looking forward” provides a good example.
Imagine a student writing to a professor after being invited to discuss a research project.
The student writes:
I am very much looking forward to meet you and discuss the project.
The intended meaning is clear. However, there is a grammatical problem after “looking forward to.”
The corrected version is:
I am very much looking forward to meeting you and discussing the project.
The change is small, but it matters. After “look forward to,” a following verb should normally appear in the -ing form.
Now consider a professional email:
I am very much looking forward to work with your team.
The corrected sentence is:
I am very much looking forward to working with your team.
Again, the problem is not “very much.” The problem is the verb form after the preposition “to.”
What This Shows
The expression itself is perfectly acceptable. The important thing is to complete its grammatical pattern correctly.
Look forward to + noun
I am looking forward to the conference.
Look forward to + -ing form
I am looking forward to attending the conference.
This pattern works across professional, academic, personal, and everyday contexts.
Common Myths
Several misconceptions can make this expression seem more complicated than it really is. Understanding the myths helps you use it with confidence.
Myth: “I Am Very Much Looking Forward” Is Grammatically Wrong
This is false.
“I am very much looking forward” is grammatically acceptable when the sentence is completed properly.
For example:
I am very much looking forward to the event.
I am very much looking forward to meeting you.
The phrase becomes problematic only when another grammatical error is introduced.
For instance:
I am very much looking forward to meet you.
The issue here is “to meet,” not “very much looking forward.”
Myth: “Very Much” Should Never Be Used With “Looking Forward”
There is no grammatical rule that prohibits “very much” in this expression.
The phrase can be used to add emphasis:
I am very much looking forward to seeing everyone.
However, “very much” is optional. You can simply write:
I am looking forward to seeing everyone.
Both sentences are correct.
The choice depends on the degree of emphasis and the tone you want.
Myth: “Looking Forward To” Always Requires an -Ing Verb
Not necessarily.
The word after “to” can be a noun or noun phrase.
I am looking forward to the meeting.
She is looking forward to her vacation.
They are looking forward to the new opportunity.
When a verb follows “to,” however, the verb normally takes the -ing form:
I am looking forward to meeting you.
She is looking forward to starting her new position.
So the more accurate rule is:
Look forward to + noun/noun phrase OR -ing form.
Myth: “Very Much” Makes the Sentence Incorrectly Formal
Not necessarily.
The expression does have a formal or polished feel in many contexts, but formality is not the same as incorrectness.
Consider:
I am very much looking forward to our conversation.
That sentence can be completely appropriate in a professional email.
The issue is whether the tone matches the audience. If the same sentence appears in a quick text to a close friend, it may sound unnecessarily formal.
Myth: “I Am Looking Forward” and “I Am Excited” Mean Exactly the Same Thing
They are closely related, but they are not identical.
Looking forward to focuses on positive anticipation.
I am looking forward to the trip.
Excited about emphasizes enthusiasm or emotional excitement.
I am excited about the trip.
The difference is subtle. In many situations, either expression works.
Still, “I look forward to” is often more restrained and professional, while “I’m excited about” tends to sound warmer and more conversational.
How to Choose the Best Version
When deciding whether to use “I am very much looking forward,” ask yourself three simple questions.
What Am I Anticipating?
If you are referring to an upcoming event, meeting, activity, opportunity, or experience, “looking forward to” is often a natural choice.
I am looking forward to the interview.
I am very much looking forward to attending the ceremony.
Who Am I Speaking To?
Your audience affects your choice.
For a professional audience:
I am looking forward to working with you.
For a friend:
I’m really looking forward to it!
For someone you know well but still need to address respectfully:
I’m very much looking forward to seeing you.
There is no single version that works best everywhere.
How Much Emphasis Do I Need?
Use “I am looking forward to” when ordinary positive anticipation is enough.Use “I am very much looking forward to” when you want to add stronger emphasis.Use “I’m really looking forward to” when you want a more conversational sound.Use “I can’t wait to” when the situation is clearly informal and highly enthusiastic.
A Practical Comparison of Common Expressions
| Expression | Formality | Enthusiasm | Best Use |
| I look forward to… | High | Moderate | Business and formal writing |
| I am looking forward to… | Moderate | Moderate | Professional and general use |
| I am very much looking forward to… | Moderate to high | Strong | Formal, appreciative communication |
| I’m really looking forward to… | Casual to moderate | Strong | Friendly and conversational writing |
| I’m excited about… | Moderate | Strong | Personal and professional contexts |
| I’m eager to… | Moderate to high | Strong | Professional goals and opportunities |
| I can’t wait to… | Low | Very strong | Casual conversations |
| I anticipate… | High | Low to moderate | Formal statements and expectations |
This comparison shows why context matters so much.
A phrase can be completely grammatical but still feel inappropriate for a particular audience.
Final Quick Grammar Checklist
Before using “I am very much looking forward,” check these points:
- Use “am” with “I.”
- Keep “looking” in the -ing form.
- Include “to” after “looking forward.”
- Use a noun, noun phrase, or -ing form after that “to.”
- Do not write “looking forward to meet.”
- Do not confuse this “to” with the infinitive marker.
- Use “very much” when extra emphasis is useful.
- Remove “very much” when a simpler tone works better.
- Match the expression to your audience.
- Avoid using an overly formal phrase in an extremely casual message.
- Remember that “I am looking forward to…” is already complete and natural without “very much.”
Correct Patterns to Remember
I am looking forward to the meeting.I am looking forward to meeting you.I am very much looking forward to the meeting.I am very much looking forward to meeting you.Incorrect Patterns to AvoidI am looking forward to meet you. ✗I am very much looking forward meet you. ✗I am looking forward to to meeting you. ✗
The correct structure is simple once you recognize “look forward to” as a fixed expression followed by a noun or -ing form.
The Bottom Line
Yes, “I am very much looking forward” is correct when it is followed by the appropriate complement.
For example:
I am very much looking forward to meeting you.
The phrase communicates strong, positive anticipation. It often sounds polished and slightly formal, which makes it especially useful in professional emails, academic communication, invitations, and other respectful situations.
However, “very much” is not required. In many cases, the simpler “I am looking forward to” sounds more natural.
The most important grammar rule is what follows “to.” When a verb comes next, use its **-ing form:looking forward to hearinglooking forward to workinglooking forward to seeinglooking forward to discussing
Once that pattern becomes familiar, there is little reason to hesitate over the expression. Choose the version that matches your tone, audience, and level of enthusiasm, then make sure the grammar after “to” is correct.
Conclusion
“I am very much looking forward” is a correct and useful English expression when you complete it properly. It expresses strong, positive anticipation and often sounds polished, respectful, and slightly formal. The most important rule is to use “to” followed by a noun, noun phrase, or -ing form when a verb follows it. For example, “I am very much looking forward to meeting you” is correct, while “looking forward to meet you” is not. You can also remove “very much” when you want a simpler, more natural tone. In professional writing, “I am looking forward to…” is often the safest choice. For casual conversations, “I’m really looking forward to…” or “I can’t wait to…” may sound more natural. Choose the expression that matches your audience, purpose, and level of enthusiasm.
FAQs
Is “I am very much looking forward” grammatically correct?
Yes, “I am very much looking forward” is grammatically correct when the sentence is completed properly. It is normally followed by “to” and then a noun, noun phrase, or -ing form. For example, “I am very much looking forward to meeting you” is correct. The expression emphasizes positive anticipation and often has a polished, formal tone.
What should come after “I am very much looking forward”?
After “I am very much looking forward,” use “to” followed by a noun, noun phrase, or -ing verb. For example, you can say, “I am very much looking forward to the meeting” or “I am very much looking forward to seeing you.” Avoid using a base verb after this expression, such as “to see” or “to meet.”
Is “I am very much looking forward to meeting you” correct?
Yes, “I am very much looking forward to meeting you” is completely correct. The word “to” functions as a preposition in the expression “look forward to.” Therefore, when a verb follows it, that verb takes the -ing form. This sentence sounds polite, professional, and warm, making it suitable for emails, meetings, interviews, and formal introductions.
Is “I am looking forward to” better than “I am very much looking forward to”?
Neither expression is grammatically better. “I am looking forward to” is simpler and more neutral, while “I am very much looking forward to” adds emphasis. The shorter version often sounds more natural in everyday professional writing. The longer version works well when you want to express stronger enthusiasm, appreciation, or anticipation without becoming overly casual.
Can I say “I am very much looking forward to meet you”?
No. The preferred grammatical form is “I am very much looking forward to meeting you.” After the preposition “to” in “look forward to,” a verb should normally appear in the -ing form. Therefore, use “meeting,” “seeing,” “hearing,” “working,” or “discussing,” rather than the base forms “meet,” “see,” “hear,” “work,” or “discuss.”
Is “I am very much looking forward” formal?
Yes, “I am very much looking forward to…” generally has a more formal or polished tone than “I’m really looking forward to…” It works especially well in professional emails, academic communication, invitations, and business correspondence. It is not incorrect in casual situations, but a shorter expression may sound more relaxed and natural when speaking with friends or family.
Can I use “I am very much looking forward” in a professional email?
Yes, it is appropriate for professional emails. You might write, “I am very much looking forward to discussing the project with you.” The expression communicates enthusiasm while maintaining a respectful tone. However, you do not need to use “very much” every time. “I look forward to discussing the project with you” is also professional, clear, and widely used.
What is the difference between “looking forward to” and “excited about”?
Both expressions can describe positive anticipation, but their tone differs slightly. “Looking forward to” often sounds more restrained and polite, while “excited about” emphasizes enthusiasm and emotion. For example, “I am looking forward to the conference” sounds professional, while “I am excited about the conference” sounds more enthusiastic and conversational. Both can be correct depending on context.
Can I use “very much” with “looking forward to”?
Yes. “Very much” can be used to strengthen the expression and emphasize your anticipation. For example, “I am very much looking forward to attending the event” expresses stronger enthusiasm than “I am looking forward to attending the event.” However, “very much” is optional, so you can leave it out when a simpler and more natural sentence is preferable.
What is the most natural way to say “I am very much looking forward”?
The most natural choice depends on the situation. In professional writing, “I am looking forward to…” is usually simple and polished. If you want stronger emphasis, “I am very much looking forward to…” works well. In casual communication, “I’m really looking forward to…” often sounds more natural. The key is to match the expression with your audience and level of formality.