Phrase guide

look for trouble

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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No pronunciation record was provided for this word.

1

verb

Meaning 1

to deliberately act in a way that's likely to lead to a fight.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: informal

Examples

  • When they showed up, you could tell they were looking for trouble

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

to do things that are likely to cause problems.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: informal

Examples

  • If you cut corners on maintenance now, you're just looking for trouble later on.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.