Is It Correct to Say “I Am Very Much Looking Forward”?

Understanding this phrase comes down to balance. “I am very much looking forward” follows correct grammar, yet it carries a tone that feels intentional and measured. In professional writing, that’s often a strength. It signals care, respect, and anticipation without sounding rushed. That’s why it shows up so often in formal emails, client messages, and official replies. The structure feels complete, which helps readers trust the message.

However, everyday speech plays by looser rules. In quick conversations or casual chats, people usually trim the phrase. They might say “I’m really looking forward to it” or “can’t wait.” These sound lighter and match the relaxed setting better. The meaning stays the same, but the delivery fits the moment. That shift shows how context quietly shapes what sounds natural.

Once this clicks, writing gets easier. You stop worrying about whether the phrase is correct and start thinking about whether it fits. That mindset builds confidence fast. Instead of memorising rules, you learn to listen to tone, audience, and purpose. That’s where strong, fluent English actually comes from.

Understanding the Phrase “I Am Very Much Looking Forward”

At its core, this phrase expresses anticipation. It shows that someone feels pleased or excited about a future event. The key part is “looking forward to”, which is a fixed expression in English. You can’t break it apart or change its structure without affecting correctness.

“I am” shows the present state.
“Looking forward to” shows anticipation.
“Very much” intensifies the feeling.

Together, the phrase signals strong, polite enthusiasm. You often see it in professional or semi-formal situations because it sounds respectful without being emotional.

Grammar Breakdown: What’s Really Going On?

The confusion starts with how English handles verbs after prepositions. In “looking forward to”, the word “to” is not part of an infinitive. It is a preposition. That single detail changes everything.

Because “to” is a preposition here, it must be followed by a noun or a gerund (a verb ending in -ing). This rule never changes.

Correct examples:

• I am very much looking forward to meeting you
• I am very much looking forward to the conference
• I am very much looking forward to your reply

Incorrect example:

• I am very much looking forward to meet you

Once you understand this rule, the phrase becomes easy to control.

“Look Forward To” as a Phrasal-Prepositional Verb

“Look forward to” is not just a verb phrase. It’s a phrasal-prepositional verb, meaning all parts work together as one unit. You can’t remove or rearrange them.

You cannot say:

• I am looking forward very much to the event
• I am looking to forward the meeting

The structure must stay intact. English treats this phrase as fixed, much like “take care of” or “run out of.”

Why the Object Matters So Much

One of the most common mistakes is stopping the sentence too early. Saying “I am very much looking forward” without an object leaves the thought unfinished. It feels like a sentence that trails off.

Always ask yourself one question:
Looking forward to what?

If the answer isn’t in the sentence, the sentence feels incomplete. In formal writing, that mistake stands out fast.

Understanding the Modifier “Very Much”

The phrase “very much” adds emphasis. It strengthens the emotion without sounding casual or dramatic. That’s why it fits well in professional settings.

However, placement matters. “Very much” should sit naturally between “am” and “looking” or before the verb phrase.

Correct placement:

• I am very much looking forward to our discussion

Awkward placement:

• I am looking forward very much to our discussion

Native speakers instinctively feel the difference. The first flows. The second feels forced.

Sentence Structure and Word Order

English allows flexibility, but professional phrases demand balance. When this phrase sounds awkward, it’s usually because of word order.

Smooth structure:

• Subject + verb + modifier + verb phrase + object

Example:

• I am very much looking forward to working with your team

This structure sounds confident, natural, and polished.

Common Mistakes People Make

Leaving Out the Object

Writers sometimes assume the object is obvious. In formal writing, it must still appear.

Using the Infinitive

“Looking forward to meeting” is one of the most frequent grammar mistakes in emails.

Misplacing “Very Much”

Over-emphasis or odd placement makes the sentence feel stiff or unnatural.

Avoiding these mistakes instantly improves clarity and tone.

Formal vs Informal Usage

Formal Situations

In professional settings, this phrase works well. It sounds respectful and measured.

Common uses:

• Business emails
• Job interviews
• Client communication
• Academic correspondence

Example:

• I am very much looking forward to your feedback.

Informal Situations

In casual speech, the phrase can feel heavy. People often shorten it.

Casual alternatives:

• I’m really looking forward to it
• I can’t wait to see you
• I’m excited about it

The grammar stays the same, but the tone softens.

When the Phrase Works Best

This phrase shines when you want to:

• Show professionalism
• Express polite enthusiasm
• Maintain a respectful tone
• Avoid sounding too casual

It works especially well at the end of messages, where it leaves a positive impression.

Practical Alternatives to Use Naturally

Sometimes repetition makes writing dull. English offers many natural alternatives depending on tone.

Formal alternatives:

• I look forward to hearing from you
• I greatly anticipate our meeting
• I eagerly await your response

Semi-formal alternatives:

• I’m really looking forward to it
• I’m excited about what’s ahead

Choosing the right option keeps your writing fresh.

Real-Life Examples With Explanations

Business Email Example

I am very much looking forward to discussing the proposal in detail.

Why it works:

• Clear object
• Polite tone
• Professional rhythm

Job Interview Follow-Up

I am very much looking forward to the opportunity to contribute to your team.

Why it works:

• Shows interest
• Sounds respectful
• Avoids exaggeration

Casual Message

I’m really looking forward to seeing you.

Why it works:

• Same grammar
• Softer tone
• More conversational

Quick Reference Table: Correct Usage at a Glance

Correct:

• Looking forward to meeting you
• Looking forward to the event
• Very much looking forward to your reply

Incorrect:

• Looking forward to meet you
• Looking forward very much
• Looking forward

Why This Phrase Still Matters Today

Despite newer expressions, “I am very much looking forward” remains relevant because it balances clarity and courtesy. It doesn’t try to impress. It simply communicates respect and anticipation.

When used correctly, it signals strong language control. When misused, it exposes uncertainty. Mastering it helps your writing feel confident, natural, and professional across situations.

Conclusion

The phrase “I am very much looking forward” is grammatically correct and widely accepted in modern English. Its strength lies in its clarity and formality, which makes it a natural fit for professional emails, formal writing, and polite communication. The key isn’t correctness alone. It’s knowing when the tone matches the situation. Once you focus on audience and context, choosing the right version of the phrase becomes almost automatic.

FAQs

Q1. Is it grammatically correct to say “I am very much looking forward”?

Yes, it is grammatically correct. The phrase follows standard English structure and uses “looking forward to” properly with anticipation.

Q2. Does “I am very much looking forward” sound too formal?

It can sound formal in casual settings. In professional or polite communication, however, the tone feels natural and appropriate.

Q3. Can I use this phrase in business emails?

Absolutely. It works well in business emails because it sounds respectful, confident, and clear without being overly stiff.

Q4. What is a more casual alternative to this phrase?

Common casual alternatives include “I’m really looking forward to it” or “I can’t wait,” which feel lighter and more conversational.

Q5. Why do some people think this phrase is incorrect?

The confusion usually comes from tone, not grammar. Some speakers mistake formality for incorrect usage.