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Phrasal verbs "look out for" vs "watch out for"

Differences between look out for and watch out for

Look out for and watch out for are very similar in meaning, but there is a slight difference. Look out for means to be aware of something or someone and keep an eye on them, while watch out for means to be cautious or careful of potential danger or harm.

Meanings and Definitions: look out for vs watch out for

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

Watch out for

  • 1Be careful of something.

    WATCH OUT FOR bats in the caves; many have rabies.

Usage Examples: look out for, watch out for in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

watch out for

Example

Please watch out for the slippery floor.

Example

She always watches out for her little brother at the playground.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look out for

keep an eye on

To watch or monitor something or someone closely.

Example

Can you keep an eye on my bag while I go to the restroom?

be on the lookout for

To be alert and watchful for something or someone.

Example

The police are on the lookout for a suspect who robbed a convenience store last night.

pay attention to

To focus on and give consideration to something or someone.

Example

It's important to pay attention to your surroundings when walking alone at night.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Watch out for

be careful of

To exercise caution or prudence in order to avoid harm or danger.

Example

You should be careful of the slippery floor after it rains.

be wary of

To be cautious or suspicious of something or someone.

Example

I always am wary of strangers who approach me on the street.

take care around

To be cautious or careful when dealing with something or someone.

Example

You should take care around wild animals and not approach them too closely.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “watch”

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

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

Both phrases are commonly used in everyday conversation, but watch out for is slightly more common. This is because it's often used as a warning to prevent accidents or mishaps. Look out for is also used frequently, but it's more commonly used to mean paying attention to something or someone.

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

Both look out for and watch out for are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations with friends and family. However, 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 out for and watch out for

The tone of look out for and watch out for can differ based on context. Look out for often carries a positive or helpful tone when related to keeping an eye on something or someone, while watch out for typically has a more urgent or serious tone, especially when referring to potential danger or harm.

look out for & watch out for: Synonyms and Antonyms

Look out for

Synonyms

Watch out for

Synonyms

  • be careful of
  • be cautious of
  • be mindful of
  • beware of
  • look out for
  • pay attention to
  • take care of
  • guard against

Antonyms

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