look out

USAGE SUMMARY

"look out" is correct and usable in written English.
Generally, people use this phrase as a warning, meaning to be careful or watch out. For example: "Look out! The door is closing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So look out".

The New York Times

After that, look out.

The New York Times

So look out, Americans!

The Economist

Look out, America.

Independent

And look out!

The New Yorker

Look out Tate Modern.

Independent

Look out buddy".

The New York Times

"Look out!" Paul said.

The New Yorker

Look out for it".

Independent

When he's not, look out.

The New York Times - Books

Look out, Goliath.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "look out" to deliver a clear and immediate warning. It's best suited for situations where there's a potential for sudden danger or surprise.

Common error

Avoid using "look out" in formal or academic writing. Opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "exercise caution" or "be vigilant" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look out" primarily functions as an interjection or imperative. It's used to express a sudden warning or caution, prompting someone to be alert to potential danger. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Wiki

28%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

12%

Reference

8%

Encyclopedias

7%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "look out" serves as a direct and immediate warning. Ludwig AI identifies it as grammatically correct and demonstrates that it is very commonly used across various sources, especially news media and wikis. While perfectly acceptable in informal contexts, more formal scenarios might benefit from alternatives like "exercise caution" or "be vigilant". Remember that "look out" implies a sense of urgency and should be used accordingly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

watch out

Direct synonym, interchangeable in many contexts.

be careful

General caution, less immediate than "look out".

heads up

Informal warning, often used for upcoming events or issues.

keep an eye out

Suggests vigilance over a period of time.

take care

Suggests caution, but can also mean goodbye.

beware

More formal and intense warning of danger.

be aware

Highlights a state of alertness regarding surroundings.

stay alert

Emphasizes maintaining a state of readiness.

mind you

More of a reminder to pay attention than an immediate warning.

pay attention

Focuses on directing one's focus.

FAQs

What does "look out" mean?

The phrase "look out" is an exclamation used to warn someone of impending danger or to urge them to be careful. It's similar to saying "watch out" or "be careful".

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "look out"?

Use "look out" in situations where there is a need for an immediate warning, such as when someone is about to step into traffic or when something is falling from above. It's appropriate in informal and conversational contexts.

What can I say instead of "look out"?

You can use alternatives like "watch out", "be careful", or "mind out" depending on the context. Each conveys a similar warning or caution.

Is "look out" grammatically correct?

Yes, "look out" is grammatically correct as an interjection or imperative phrase. It is commonly used in spoken and written English to convey a sense of alert or warning.