look out for
Idioms-
See to the welfare of, as in Mary was assigned to look out for the youngsters on the playground . Similar to look after , this expression appears in such terms as look out for number one , meaning “see to one's own best interests,” as in Looking out for number one is Barbara's first priority . Versions of this expression, such as take care of number one , date from 1700.
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Be careful of or watchful for something or someone, as in Look out for broken glass on the floor , or Look out for Mary—she'll be coming any minute . [Second half of 1600s] Also see look out .
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Conservationists have urged birders to look out for the youngsters, and report any sightings by emailing the RSPB's Montagu's hotline at [email protected].
From BBC ● Aug. 24, 2026
This is a pattern of play to look out for this season.
From BBC ● Aug. 22, 2026
On Wednesday, Shaw had not yet had an opportunity to review the book-policy complaint, but said both policies ultimately look out for children by safeguarding the rights of parents.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 18, 2026
There are also tax benefits to look out for, including the child and dependent care tax credit or dependent care FSAs that allow for childcare costs to be paid with pre-tax dollars.
From MarketWatch ● Aug. 5, 2026
“I see how you look out for Chicken,” said Lily.
From "Caterpillar Summer" by Gillian McDunn
Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.
