Phrasal verbs "look at" vs "look out"

Differences between look at and look out

Look at means to direct your gaze towards something or someone, while look out means to be careful or watchful of potential danger or hazards.

Meanings and Definitions: look at vs look out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Look at

  • 1Examine or inspect.

    I’d like a skin specialist to look at that rash of yours.

  • 2Direct your gaze towards someone or something.

    Look at Helen. She’s much happier now she’s changed jobs.

Look out

  • 1Be careful.

    LOOK OUT; you're going to drop that!

Usage Examples: look at, look out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

look at

Example

Please look at the painting on the wall.

Example

She looks at the menu before ordering.

look out

Example

Always look out for cars when crossing the street.

Example

She looks out for her younger brother at school.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look at

To look steadily and intently at something or someone.

Example

She gazed at the sunset for a few minutes before taking a picture.

To look fixedly or intensely at something or someone for a prolonged period.

Example

He stared at his computer screen for hours, trying to finish his project.

To look quickly or briefly at something or someone.

Example

She glanced at her watch to check the time before leaving the office.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look out

To take precautions or be cautious in order to avoid danger or harm.

Example

Be careful when crossing the street, there's a lot of traffic today.

To be alert and vigilant in order to avoid potential danger or harm.

Example

Watch out for the slippery floor, it's wet from the rain.

To be watchful and alert in order to notice something or someone.

Example

The police officers were on the lookout for the suspect who had escaped from prison.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “at”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in look at vs look out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: look at or look out?

In daily conversation, people use look at more often than look out. This is because look at is used for more routine activities such as observing something or someone. Look out is not used as much, but it's still a common phrase that people use to warn others about potential dangers. So, while both phrases are used, look at is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of look at and look out

Look at and look out are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of look at and look out

The tone of look at and look out can differ based on context. Look at often carries a neutral or curious tone when related to observing something or someone, while look out typically has a concerned or urgent tone, especially when warning someone about potential danger.

look at & look out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Look out

Synonyms

  • beware
  • be careful
  • watch out
  • be alert
  • be cautious
  • be vigilant
  • pay attention

Antonyms

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