Differences between look out and look up
Look out means to be careful or watchful, especially for potential danger. Look up means to search for information or to improve one's mood.
Meanings and Definitions: look out vs look up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Look out
- 1Be careful.
LOOK OUT; you're going to drop that!
Look up
- 1Consult a reference work ( dictionary, phonebook, etc. ) for a specific piece of information..
I didn't know the correct spelling so I had to LOOK it UP in the dictionary.
- 2Improve.
The economy is LOOKING UP.
- 3Find, trace an old friend.
I LOOKED him UP when I went back to Cambridge.
Usage Examples: look out, look up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
look out
Example
Always look out for cars when crossing the street.
Example
She looks out for her younger brother at school.
look up
Example
When I don't know a word, I look it up in the dictionary.
Example
She looks up new recipes online every week.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look out
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look up
To investigate or study a topic in order to gain knowledge or information.
Example
She spent hours researching the best schools for her children before making a decision.
cheer up
To improve one's mood or make someone feel happier.
Example
I brought her some flowers to cheer her up after a tough day at work.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “look”
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
Differences in look out vs look up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: look out or look up?
In daily conversation, people use look out more often than look up. This is because look out is used for warning someone about a potential danger or reminding them to be careful. Look up is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about searching for information or trying to improve our mood. So, while both phrases are used, look out is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of look out and look up
Look out and look up 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 out and look up
The tone of look out and look up can differ based on context. Look out often carries a serious or urgent tone when related to warning someone about potential danger, while look up typically has a positive and hopeful tone, especially when referring to improving one's mood or finding information.
look out & look up: Synonyms and Antonyms
Look out
Synonyms
- beware
- be careful
- watch out
- be alert
- be cautious
- be vigilant
- pay attention
