to pay attention to something or someone so you notice it when it appears or happens
When you cross the street, always look out for cars.
A: Did you see my friend arrive? B: Not yet, but I’ll look out for her.
In my hometown, you have to look out for cyclists because there are so many on the roads.
Common mistake
✗Look out the postman, I'm expecting a parcel.
✓Look out for the postman.
Needs 'for' — 'look out FOR something/someone'. 'Look out the window' is a different meaning.
Tell it apart
Look out for a tall man in a blue coat.
watch for him
Will you look out for the kids?
keep them safe
Use this when you want to say you are watching carefully for something to happen or appear.Not the same as 'look for', which means to search for something.
to take care of someone and make sure they are safe or treated well
Older siblings often look out for their younger brothers and sisters.
A: Who will look out for you while your parents are away? B: My aunt will check on me every day.
I think it’s important for friends to look out for each other, especially during stressful times at university.
Common mistake
✗She always looks out her little brother.
✓She always looks out for her little brother.
This sense needs 'for' — 'look out FOR someone'.
Tell it apart
He looks out for his younger sister.
protects her
Look out for falling rocks.
watch for them
Use this when you want to say you help or protect someone, not just watch them.'Look after' means to care for someone in general; 'look out for' is more about protecting or supporting.