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Phrasal verbs "look on" vs "look out for"

Differences between look on and look out for

Look on means to observe something or someone, usually without getting involved. It can also mean to have a particular attitude towards something or someone. On the other hand, look out for means to be careful and watchful in order to avoid danger or harm.

Meanings and Definitions: look on vs look out for

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Look on

  • 1Watch something like a crime without helping.

    The crowd just LOOKED ON as the old lady was mugged.

Look out for

  • 1Take care of someone, make sure someone is cared for.

    She LOOKED OUT FOR her sister when she started school.

  • 2Keep alert and try to see.

    We we told to LOOK OUT FOR any suspicious behaviour.

Usage Examples: look on, look out for in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

look on

Example

Many people looked on as the parade passed by.

Example

He looks on as his friends play basketball.

look out for

Example

Please look out for any suspicious behavior in the neighborhood.

Example

She always looks out for her younger brother at school.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look on

watch from afar

To observe something or someone from a distance without getting involved.

Example

She preferred to watch the sunset from afar rather than going to the beach.

have a view

To have a particular attitude or perspective towards something or someone.

Example

He has a positive view of the new project and thinks it will be successful.

take a back seat

To remain in a passive or uninvolved position.

Example

I prefer to take a back seat and let others lead the discussion.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look out for

be on the lookout

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

Example

When hiking in the forest, it's important to be on the lookout for snakes and other wildlife.

be cautious of

To be careful and avoid potential danger or harm.

Example

She always is cautious of strangers and doesn't trust easily.

keep an eye peeled

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

Example

We need to keep an eye peeled for any suspicious activity in the neighborhood.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Differences in look on vs look out for: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: look on or look out for?

In daily conversation, people use look out for more often than look on. This is because look out for is used for warning someone or being cautious about something. Look on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about observing something or someone. So, while both phrases are used, look out for is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of look on and look out for

Look on and look out for 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 on and look out for

The tone of look on and look out for can differ based on context. Look on often carries a neutral or passive tone when related to observing, while look out for typically has a cautious and protective tone, especially when referring to avoiding danger or harm.

look on & look out for: Synonyms and Antonyms

Look out for

Synonyms

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