Have a look means to look at something, usually briefly, to check or assess it: have a look at this photo, have a look at the engine. With around, it means to explore a place: have a look around the town.
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have a (quick/closer) look at + something; have a look around + place; have a look for + something
- The mechanic had a quick look at the engine and found the problem in five minutes.
- We've got an hour before our train, so let's have a look around the market.
- Have a look at the timetable and tell me which bus we need.
What changed
First versionCan I have a look your holiday photos?
RevisionCan I have a look at your holiday photos?
Unlike see or watch, look doesn't take a direct object. What you look at is introduced with at: have a look at, look at. So at was added before your holiday photos.
Have a look and take a look mean the same. Have a look is more common in British English and take a look in American English, but both are understood everywhere. Also remember have a look for, which means to search: I'll have a look for your charger in the car.
Your turn
I can't find my glasses anywhere. Could you ___ them in the kitchen?
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have a look for — The glasses are lost and need to be found, which is have a look for, to search. Have a look at means to look at something that's already in front of you, and the glasses are exactly what you can't see.
You've lost something at home or at the office. Ask someone to search for it and suggest where to check.
I've lost my passport. Could you have a look for it in the bedroom, maybe in the top drawer?
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