look-out

A sailor stands watch from the crow's nest as a look-out.

Definition

1. Noun:
   • A watch or observation: "look-out" refers to the act of watching carefully for danger, opportunities, or expected events.

     • He kept a sharp look-out for any movement in the forest. (He maintained careful observation.)
   • A person who watches: A "look-out" is an individual assigned to keep watch, especially in a dangerous or secret context.

     • The thief posted a look-out at the corner of the street. (A person watching for police.)
   • A place for watching: A "look-out" is a location with a good view, used for observation.

     • The tower served as a look-out over the entire valley. (A vantage point for monitoring.)
   • A prospect or view: "look-out" can mean a scenic vista or overview.

     • From the hill, there is a wonderful look-out over the sea. (A beautiful panoramic view.)
   • A concern or responsibility: In informal use, "look-out" refers to something that is a person’s own problem or affair.

     • That is his look-out, not mine. (That is his own concern or responsibility.)

Usage Examples

• (They maintained continuous surveillance.)
• (She was the person watching for dangers.)
• (It functions as an observation point.)
• (The view was stunning.)
• (That is his own problem to deal with.)

Advanced Usage

• "to be on the look-out for": to be actively watching for something.
  • The police are on the look-out for a stolen car. (They are searching vigilantly.)
• "to keep a sharp look-out": to watch very carefully and attentively.
  • Keep a sharp look-out for any changes in the weather. (Observe with great care.)
• "to act as a look-out": to serve as the person who watches for danger.
  • He acted as a look-out while the others entered the building. (He assumed the role of watcher.)

Variants and Related Words

• Lookout (n): a common variant spelling (one word) with the same meanings.
  • The lookout spotted the approaching storm. (The person on watch.)
• Look-out tower (n): a structure built for observation.
  • They climbed the look-out tower to see the sunset. (A tower used for viewing.)
• Look-out point (n): a location with a good view for observation.
  • The park has several look-out points along the trail. (Places to stop and view the scenery.)

Synonyms

• Watch: the act of observing closely.
• Guard: a person who protects or monitors.
• Vigil: a period of keeping awake to watch.
• Surveillance: close observation, especially for security.
• Observation post: a position used for watching.
• Vista: a pleasing view or prospect.

Phrasal Verbs

• Look out: to watch carefully, especially for danger.
  • Look out for cars when crossing the street. (Be cautious and observant.)
• Look out for: to take care of or protect someone.
  • She always looks out for her younger brother. (She watches over him.)

Related Idioms

• Keep your eyes peeled: to watch very attentively.
  • Keep your eyes peeled for any suspicious activity. (Stay alert.)
• On the watch: actively looking for something.
  • The guard was on the watch for intruders. (He was vigilant.)
• One's own lookout: a personal responsibility or problem.
  • Whether you succeed or fail is your own lookout. (It is your concern alone.)