look out: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘look out’ mean?
The idiom look out means to be aware of or watchful for something, typically a potential danger or problem.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "pay attention" means to give your full focus and concentration to something or someone. It implies being alert and actively engaging with the subject or task at hand.
The idiom "on one's watch" means being responsible for something or someone during one's assigned time or period of duty.
The idiom "look up and down" means to examine someone or something carefully, often in a judgmental or critical manner.
The idiom "look up" means to search for information or seek clarification. It is often used when someone wants to find a specific piece of information or research a topic to gain a better understanding.
The idiom *look to* means to rely on or seek guidance or support from someone or something. It suggests a need for assistance or a source of help in a particular situation or decision.
The idiom "look through" means to examine or search for something in detail, often with the intention of finding a particular item or piece of information.
The idiom "look the other way" means to purposefully ignore or pretend not to notice something that is wrong or improper. It is often used when someone wants to avoid taking action or becoming involved in a potentially difficult or uncomfortable situation.
The idiom "look over one's shoulder" means to be cautious or fearful of potential danger or competition, often due to a sense of insecurity or paranoia.
The idiom "look out for number one" means to prioritize oneself and one's own interests above all others. It implies a selfishness or self-centeredness, often at the expense of others.
Cautionary Vigilance
The idiom "look out" is a commonly used phrase in American English that dates back to the early 19th century. It is a verb phrase formed by combining the verb "look" and the preposition "out," creating a meaning that goes beyond the literal interpretation of those words individually.
One fact about the idiom "look out" is that it is primarily used as a warning or cautionary phrase. It is often used to advise someone to be aware of their surroundings and to watch out for potential dangers or hazards. For example, if someone says "look out!" it is a clear indication for the listener to be on alert and take precautions.
keep watch and be attentive to your surroundings. The idiom "look out" can be considered synonymous with the idioms "keep watch," "keep an eye open," and "keep an eye peeled." All of these expressions emphasize the importance of vigilance and being aware of potential threats or hazards. Whether it's in a personal or professional setting, it's crucial to stay alert and keep a lookout for any dangers that may arise.
Another fact about the idiom is its versatility in usage. "Look out" can be utilized in various contexts, such as in spoken or written language, in informal or formal situations, and in both personal and professional settings. Its flexibility allows it to be applied in different scenarios, making it a practical and adaptable expression.
Stay cautious and remain on guard. The idioms "keep watch," "keep an eye open," and "keep an eye peeled" all convey a similar message to "look out." These phrases remind us to stay vigilant and attentive to our surroundings. Whether it's keeping an eye out for potential dangers while crossing the street or being on the lookout for opportunities in our professional lives, it's important to stay alert and ready to take action.
Furthermore, the origins of the idiom can be traced back to nautical terminology. The phrase "look out" was originally used to instruct sailors to keep a lookout for any potential hazards or dangers while at sea. This maritime usage eventually transitioned into everyday language, evolving into its current idiomatic form.
Be careful and vigilant. The idioms "keep watch," "keep an eye open," and "keep an eye peeled" all share a common theme with "look out." They all emphasize the necessity of being cautious and not letting potential dangers go unnoticed. Whether it's watching out for pickpockets in a crowded street or being alert for any changes in a business environment, it's essential to stay on guard and be prepared for any unexpected situations.
The idiom "look out" is deeply rooted in everyday American English and is frequently encountered in various forms of media, including literature, films, and conversations. It has become an integral part of the language, expressing a sense of vigilance and awareness.
Be alert and watch out for any dangers that may arise. The idioms "keep watch," "keep an eye open," and "keep an eye peeled" all align with the meaning of "look out." They all encourage us to stay attentive and mindful of our surroundings. Whether it's being cautious while walking alone at night or keeping a constant lookout for changes in a competitive market, being alert is key to staying safe and making informed decisions.
The idiom "look out" has a long history and is commonly used to warn or advise others to be cautious and attentive to potential dangers. Its origins can be traced back to nautical terminology, but it has since become a versatile and widely recognized expression in American English. The phrase continues to be a significant part of the language, conveying the importance of staying alert and being mindful of one's surroundings.
Be wary and keep an eye out for any potential hazards. The idioms "keep watch," "keep an eye open," and "keep an eye peeled" all convey a similar message to "look out." They all prompt us to stay vigilant and attentive to our environment. Whether it's being cautious while exploring unfamiliar territory or being on the lookout for new opportunities, being alert is essential for personal safety and professional growth.
The idiom "look out" is a commonly used phrase in American English that serves as a warning or cautionary expression. Its origins can be traced back to nautical terminology, and it has since become deeply ingrained in everyday language. The idioms "keep watch," "keep an eye open," and "keep an eye peeled" all align with the meaning of "look out" and emphasize the importance of staying vigilant and aware of potential dangers or opportunities. By incorporating these idioms into our vocabulary, we can better communicate the need for attentiveness and mindfulness in various aspects of life.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *look out* can be used in a sentence:
1. Look out! There's a car coming!
2. You should look out for any signs of danger in this neighborhood.
3. Look out for the train, it's about to pass by.
More "Warning" idioms
