looking outward

USAGE SUMMARY

"looking outward" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the phrase to refer to the act of taking an outward-looking perspective, or to encourage others to think beyond their own perspectives or contexts. For example: "We need to take an outward-looking perspective and consider how our decisions will affect the greater community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Europe was also looking outward.

Encyclopedia Britannica

These days, however, the TEDsters are increasingly looking outward.

The New York Times

He's looking outward, but all of these pieces are very interior.

The New York Times

But he's also making a point of looking outward, beyond wherever he may have started.

The New York Times - Arts

Bureaucrats and ordinary citizens alike are indeed looking outward for lessons.

The Economist

You cannot close in if you are only looking outward at other person.

Harvard University

They understood that we are multifaceted, messy selves who develop by looking outward, not inward.

The Guardian - Books

The EU countries are suddenly looking outward in many different and divisive ways.

The Guardian - Opinion

But the scientists are gleefully looking outward, forward; talking to the world.

The Guardian - Books

But the situation has been so tough in Japan that manufacturers are looking outward.

The New York Times - Style

If we stop looking outward, we are likely to end up going nowhere.

The New York Times - Science

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "looking outward" to encourage considering broader perspectives or external factors in decision-making or analysis.

Common error

Avoid using "looking outward" when introspection or self-reflection is more appropriate. "Looking outward" emphasizes external awareness, not internal understanding.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "looking outward" functions as a gerund phrase, often serving as a noun or part of a verb phrase. It describes the action of directing one's attention or focus externally, towards the outside world or external factors. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Academia

12%

Science

7%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "looking outward" is a versatile gerund phrase that encourages consideration of external factors and perspectives. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage in various contexts, especially in News & Media, Academia, and Science. Related phrases like "taking an outward perspective" and "considering external factors" offer alternative ways to express this concept. Remember to use "looking outward" when emphasizing external awareness, and avoid using it when introspection is more appropriate. The phrase is widely accepted and valuable for communicating the importance of considering the broader world.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

taking an outward perspective

Emphasizes the adoption of an external point of view.

focusing on the external world

Highlights attention directed towards the outside environment.

exploring externally

Focuses on the action of exploring with an external orientation.

considering the bigger picture

Implies evaluating a situation within a larger context or scope.

considering external factors

Highlights the act of taking into account outside influences.

seeking external insights

Implies a search for understanding from outside sources.

thinking beyond oneself

Focuses on transcending personal concerns and considering broader issues.

extending one's gaze outward

Uses more figurative language to convey the idea of broadening one's view.

expanding horizons

Suggests broadening knowledge or experience beyond current limits.

venturing beyond

Conveys the idea of going past current boundaries or limitations.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "looking outward" in a sentence?

Use "looking outward" to suggest a focus on external factors or perspectives, such as "The company is "looking outward" for new market opportunities".

What are some alternatives to saying "looking outward"?

You can use alternatives like "taking an outward perspective", "considering external factors", or "focusing on the external world" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "looking outward" or "looking outwardly"?

"Looking outward" is generally preferred and more common. "Looking outwardly" is grammatically correct but less frequently used.

When is it appropriate to use "looking outward" instead of "looking inward"?

Use "looking outward" when you want to emphasize external factors, influences, or opportunities. Use "looking inward" when the focus is on self-reflection, introspection, or internal analysis, as in: But the whole point isn't to keep "looking outward" for action plans but to look inward and develop self-awareness.