narrow outlook

USAGE SUMMARY

'narrow outlook' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to refer to a limited point of view or an attitude that is too restricted to take in all of the facts or people involved in a certain situation. For example: "His narrow outlook on life prevented him from seeing the beauty in the world around him."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Opinion

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

The changes are designed to answer universities' complaints that too many students have a narrow outlook and often lack basic literacy skills.

The Guardian

The issue of Kashmir and terrorism are the oxygen which keep pumping life into those groups whose members may profess to two different faiths, but share an almost indistinct narrow outlook.

Independent

Of the two major not-Trumps, Florida's Senator Marco Rubio, who in any other year might be seen as too far to the right even for the G.O.P., talks incessantly about uniting his party rather than his country, while Senator Ted Cruz, of Texas, talks about uniting those who agree with his cruel, narrow outlook.

The New Yorker

Prebble warned of the dangers of the BBC gathering too many of its journalists in its new Broadcasting House headquarters in London's West End, saying: "A large group of people working together are in danger of becoming more homogenous in their thinking, not less, and so less able to see when the output reflects a narrow outlook".

The Guardian

If that implies a narrow outlook, remember that each shop offered a whole range of baked savouries in which you could express your individuality, and, for me, it was always all about – a rather effete choice in retrospect; teenage Smiths fan, see? – the cheese and onion pasty.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Then there is a provincial-level mentality, which leads people to strongly identify with their home city/town and its region, giving them a narrow outlook.

Comparative Migration Studies

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Kathakali, 35: 'Sexual harassment cases in broad daylight take place everyday' The narrow-minded outlook in this country has to be the biggest feminist issue.

The Guardian - Opinion

But he refused to withdraw from doing business there, arguing that if he did, "all that would have happened would be that Barclays, who are recognized as a liberal and international organization, would have given way to a South African-owned company, possibly with a narrower outlook".

The New York Times

EDS Qarterly Loss Narrows, Outlook Disappoints.

Forbes

Other offences on the checklist include their narrow academic outlook and lack of exposure to the "real world" of business.

The Economist

This seems indicative of a fairly entrenched view that careers services (and by default, their practitioners) are narrow in outlook and limited in scope.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "narrow outlook" to describe a perspective that is not just different, but also limited in its ability to understand or address a complex issue.

Common error

Avoid using "narrow outlook" simply to dismiss someone's opinion that differs from your own. A "narrow outlook" implies a demonstrable lack of awareness or understanding, not merely a disagreement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "narrow outlook" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. It describes a limited or restricted perspective. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

20%

Opinion

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "narrow outlook" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to describe a limited or restricted perspective. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is correct and readily usable in written English. It carries a neutral tone, making it suitable for various contexts ranging from news and media to scientific discourse. While often used critically, it's essential to ensure that the assessment is based on a genuine lack of awareness rather than simple disagreement. Related phrases such as "limited perspective" and "provincial mentality" can offer nuanced alternatives.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

limited perspective

Focuses on the limitation of the viewpoint, rather than the breadth of consideration.

restricted viewpoint

Emphasizes the constraint or limitation placed on the perspective.

limited scope

Highlights the restricted range of consideration.

parochial mindset

Suggests a localized and limited way of thinking.

provincial mentality

Implies a limited and unsophisticated perspective due to lack of exposure.

insular perspective

Conveys a sense of isolation and limited interaction with outside ideas.

myopic vision

Emphasizes a lack of foresight and a focus on the immediate.

small-mindedness

Focuses on the pettiness and lack of generosity in the viewpoint.

tunnel vision

Highlights an inability to see beyond a specific focus or goal.

one-sided view

Emphasizes the lack of balance and consideration for multiple perspectives.

FAQs

What does "narrow outlook" mean?

A "narrow outlook" refers to a limited perspective or understanding, often characterized by a lack of awareness or consideration for diverse viewpoints and broader implications.

How can I use "narrow outlook" in a sentence?

You can use "narrow outlook" to describe a person, idea, or approach that is limited in scope and fails to consider relevant factors. For example, "His "provincial mentality" gave him a "limited perspective" on global issues".

What are some synonyms for "narrow outlook"?

Alternatives to "narrow outlook" include "limited perspective", "restricted viewpoint", "provincial mentality", and "myopic vision". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it always negative to have a "narrow outlook"?

While generally negative, a "narrow outlook" can sometimes be beneficial in situations requiring intense focus on a specific detail or task. However, in most contexts, it's important to balance focused attention with a broader understanding.