Definition

Verb (phrasal verb): - To be vigilant, to be careful, to be on the lookout for potential danger or problems: The phrase "watch out" is used as a warning or instruction to pay close attention in order to avoid harm, an accident, or an unpleasant situation.

Usage

"Watch out" is primarily used as an imperative (a command or warning) or within a clause advising caution. It is often followed by the preposition "for" to specify the source of danger. - Imperative (Warning): Used to alert someone to immediate danger. * "Watch out! There's a car coming!" - With "for": Used to advise ongoing caution regarding a specific hazard. * "You should watch out for icy patches on the road."

Examples

• (A direct warning about an immediate hazard.)
• (Advice to be cautious about a general type of threat.)
• (A recommendation to maintain vigilance for a specific danger.)

Advanced Usage

• "to watch out for oneself": To be careful and protect one's own interests or safety.
  • In a big city, you really have to watch out for yourself.

Variants and Related Words

• Look out: A very close synonym, often used interchangeably as an imperative warning.
  • "Look out! A tree branch is falling!"
• Beware: A more formal or literary synonym, often used in written warnings. It is typically followed directly by "of."
  • "Beware of the dog."

Synonyms

• Be careful
• Be alert
• Take care
• Mind yourself
• Keep your eyes open

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Watch over: To guard, protect, or look after someone or something.
  • She watched over the children while they played. (Note: This is a distinct phrasal verb with a different meaning from "watch out.")

Verb

1. be vigilant, be on the lookout or be careful
   • Watch out for pickpockets!