keep a sharp lookout

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keep a sharp lookout" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to someone who is vigilant and looking out for potential danger, such as in the sentence "The security guard kept a sharp lookout for any suspicious activity."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

Steer by keeping the trailing line (rope) straight, Keep a sharp lookout forward as well note your desired arrival point.

WikiHow

Since scouting is another core tenet of IPM, be a good scout — and keep a sharp lookout for monarchs, milkweed, and monarch eggs.

Cornell University

If you prefer an Android smartphone, keep a sharp lookout for the Samsung Galaxy Nexus — the first Android phone to have the latest operating system, codenamed Ice Cream Sandwich — which is going to be available any day now.

The New York Times - Tech

Despite Grant's orders to keep a sharp lookout, Col. Robert C. Murphy, the garrison commander, failed to warn his troops or even require his officers to be with their men.

The New York Times

As you transfer the whole lot to the grill pour a very little melted butter over each slice, put them close to the heat, then keep a sharp lookout and turn each piece as the first signs of sizzling and scorching appear.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Keep a sharp lookout, however, for bureaucracy disguised as discipline.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

It made us wonder whether the Voice ought to be associated with the State Dept., which is sensitive & quite properly keeps a sharp lookout for burglars.

The New Yorker

They uncovered no smoking guns responsible for the leak and consequently kept a sharp lookout for any icy flecks that might appear from the massive frame that holds the solar panels on the left side.

The Guardian

The lookouts were nonetheless well aware of the ice hazard, as Lightoller had ordered them and other crew members to "keep a sharp look-out for ice, particularly small ice and growlers".

Wikipedia

The battlefield is ever-shifting, and readers are advised to keep a sharp and frequent lookout to chart the safest path through the fire and carnage.

Forbes

Except for keeping a sharp lookout, there was little that Captain Truxtun could do about the vanquished but missing ship.

University of Chicago

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "keep a sharp lookout" to add a sense of immediacy and importance to the act of observation.

Common error

Avoid overusing "keep a sharp lookout" in contexts where simple awareness would suffice. Overuse can dilute the impact of the phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keep a sharp lookout" functions as an imperative, urging someone to be vigilant and attentive. As Ludwig AI points out, it emphasizes the importance of being watchful for potential threats or opportunities. Its grammatical correctness underscores its suitability for use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Wiki

26%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

12%

Reference

12%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keep a sharp lookout" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase that conveys the importance of vigilance and attentiveness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for various contexts, from news reports and academic papers to general advice. The phrase is characterized by its imperative nature, urging action and proactive monitoring. While versatile, it’s essential to use it judiciously to maintain its impact. Alternatives like "stay alert" or "be on the lookout" can be employed for variety, while remembering the specific nuances each carries. The most authoritative sources that employ the expression are The New York Times, Los Angeles Times and The Guardian.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

look out

A more direct and immediate call to be aware of surroundings.

keep watch

Focuses on the act of guarding or observing something.

be on the lookout

Emphasizes the act of actively searching and watching for something specific.

be watchful

Highlights the action of watching carefully and attentively.

stay alert

A more general term that indicates being aware and ready to respond.

be on guard

Implies a defensive posture, ready to respond to threats.

maintain vigilance

Emphasizes the act of actively maintaining a state of alertness.

remain vigilant

Stresses the continuous nature of being alert and prepared.

exercise caution

Highlights the need for careful consideration and prudence.

pay close attention

Focuses on giving something careful and focused observation.

FAQs

What does "keep a sharp lookout" mean?

The phrase "keep a sharp lookout" means to be vigilant and attentive, watching carefully for potential dangers or opportunities. It implies a high degree of alertness and preparedness.

How can I use "keep a sharp lookout" in a sentence?

You can use "keep a sharp lookout" in sentences like, "The security guard was instructed to "keep a sharp lookout" for any suspicious activity" or "As we hiked through the forest, we had to "keep a sharp lookout" for wildlife."

What are some alternatives to "keep a sharp lookout"?

Some alternatives to "keep a sharp lookout" include "stay alert", "be watchful", or "be on the lookout", depending on the specific context.

Is it more appropriate to say "keep a sharp eye" or "keep a sharp lookout"?

Both "keep a sharp eye" and "keep a sharp lookout" are valid, but "keep a sharp lookout" specifically emphasizes watching for potential dangers or opportunities in one's surroundings. "Keep a sharp eye" is a closer alternative, focusing more on general observation.