look out for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "look out for" is correct and usable in written English.
You could use it to describe being alert or vigilant, to encourage someone to be careful, or to advise someone to watch for something. For example, "Look out for any suspicious-looking people in the area."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Look out for it".

Independent

To look out for cyclists.

The New York Times

Just look out for us".

The New York Times - Sports

Look out for: Django.

The Guardian

Look Out For Yourself.

Forbes

"Look out for Amazon.

Forbes

Look out for fees.

Forbes

Look out for yourself.

Forbes

Look out for this guy ... "...

Wikipedia

"Look out for Mr. Bryan.

Wikipedia

Look out for leeches.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "look out for" in writing, ensure the context is clear. Specify what the reader should be cautious or observant about to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

While "look out for" is acceptable in many situations, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more sophisticated alternatives like "be vigilant about" or "pay attention to" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "look out for" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, serving to advise caution or vigilance. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It commonly directs attention to potential dangers or things to be observed, as shown in the examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

44%

News & Media

37%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "look out for" is a common and correct phrasal verb used to advise caution or vigilance. While Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical soundness and versatility, it's worth noting that its register leans towards informal. Therefore, while perfectly acceptable in everyday conversation and general writing, consider more formal alternatives like "be vigilant about" or "pay attention to" in academic or professional contexts. Remember to clearly specify what the reader should "look out for" to avoid any ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

watch for

Focuses more on the act of observing to detect something.

be on the lookout for

Similar to "keep an eye out for" but slightly more formal.

be vigilant about

Emphasizes the need for careful attention and alertness regarding something.

keep an eye out for

Suggests a continuous and watchful state.

remain alert to

Emphasizes a state of readiness and awareness.

beware of

Implies a warning about potential danger or negative consequences.

be careful of

Indicates a need for caution to avoid potential harm.

pay attention to

Highlights the importance of focusing on something specific.

take heed of

Suggests giving careful consideration to a warning or advice.

mind

A shorter, more direct way of advising caution.

FAQs

How can I use "look out for" in a sentence?

You can use "look out for" to advise someone to be cautious or to watch for something. For example, "Look out for ice on the roads" or "Look out for any signs of trouble".

What's a more formal way to say "look out for"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases like "be vigilant about", "remain alert to", or "pay attention to".

Is "look out for" appropriate for academic writing?

While not strictly incorrect, "look out for" is generally considered informal. It's often better to use more formal alternatives in academic writing to maintain a professional tone.

What's the difference between "look out for" and "watch out for"?

"Look out for" and "watch out for" are very similar. However, "watch out for" often carries a stronger sense of immediate danger or warning compared to "look out for".