Phrasal verbs "look out" vs "stay out"

Differences between look out and stay out

Look out means to be careful or watchful of something, especially a potential danger. Stay out means to remain outside or not enter a particular place.

Meanings and Definitions: look out vs stay out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Look out

  • 1Be careful.

    LOOK OUT; you're going to drop that!

Stay out

  • 1Not go home.

    We STAYED OUT all night.

Usage Examples: look out, stay out 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.

stay out

Example

I like to stay out late on weekends.

Example

She stays out with her friends every Friday night.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Look out

To take precautions or pay attention to avoid harm or danger.

Example

When crossing the street, be careful and look both ways before stepping off the curb.

To be vigilant or cautious of potential hazards or threats.

Example

While hiking in the woods, watch out for snakes and other wildlife that could be dangerous.

To actively search or keep an eye out for something specific.

Example

The police are on the lookout for a suspect matching the description provided by witnesses.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stay out

To prevent entry or access to a particular place or area.

Example

The sign on the gate read 'Private Property - Keep Out', so we didn't enter.

To avoid going near or being in the vicinity of a particular person, place, or thing.

Example

After the breakup, she decided to stay away from her ex-boyfriend and focus on herself.

To refrain from going into a particular place or area.

Example

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we were advised to avoid entering crowded spaces and practice social distancing.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “stay”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: look out or stay out?

In daily conversation, people use look out more often than stay out. This is because look out is used for warning someone about a potential danger or reminding them to be careful. Stay out is used less frequently and mainly in situations where someone is not allowed to enter a particular place. So, while both phrases are used, look out is more common in everyday conversation.

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

Look out and stay 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 out and stay out

The tone of look out and stay out can differ based on context. Look out often carries a concerned or warning tone when related to safety, while stay out typically has a firm or authoritative tone, especially when referring to restricted areas or rules.

look out & stay out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Look out

Synonyms

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

Antonyms

Stay out

Synonyms

  • remain outside
  • not return
  • not go home
  • spend time away

Antonyms

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