Meaning trap
look out for
watch for
to pay attention to something or someone so you notice it when it appears or happens
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
to pay attention to something or someone so you notice it when it appears or happens
Another meaning of 'look out for' is 'protect'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
- When you cross the street, always look out for cars.daily life
- In my hometown, you have to look out for cyclists because there are so many on the roads.IELTS speaking
Fix the pattern
Pattern: look out for + noun/pronoun
WrongLook out the postman, I'm expecting a parcel.
RightLook out for the postman.
Needs 'for' — 'look out FOR something/someone'. 'Look out the window' is a different meaning.
Patternlook out for + noun/pronoun
Use it right
Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.
'Look out for' is the natural verb for keeping an eye out. 'Remain alert for signs indicating' is formal.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
look out forthe signsa red carbargainsmy email
Don't confuse it
Not the same as 'look for', which means to search for something.
Related
- look out for (protect) — Another meaning of 'look out for' is 'protect'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.