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Etymology Journal · W

Would you look at that?

Meaning

A slightly more formal version of the wonder-filled exclamation used when noticing something striking. It invites the listener to share in your observation.

Observational, reflective

Used in a sentence

  • Would you look at that sunset, it is absolutely brilliant.
  • We reached the peak of the mountain, would you look at that view.
  • Would you look at that, he finally cleaned his room.

The backstory

Commonly found in both formal and informal speech, it evolved from the imperative look at that. It is a standard way to direct someone's attention.

Heard in

Nationwide

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