outlook

American  

[out-look] / ˈaʊtˌlʊk /

noun

1. the view or prospect from a particular place.

   Synonyms:

   scene

2. mental attitude or view; point of view.

   one's outlook on life.

   Synonyms:

   approach, position, viewpoint, attitude

3. prospect of the future.

   the political outlook.

   Synonyms:

   scene

4. the place from which an observer looks out; lookout.

5. the act or state of looking out.

6. a watch kept; vigilance; lookout.

   a careful outlook to prevent forest fires.

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outlook British  

/ ˈaʊtˌlʊk /

noun

1. a mental attitude or point of view

2. the probable or expected condition or outcome of something

   the weather outlook

3. the view from a place

4. view or prospect

5. the act or state of looking out

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Etymology

Origin of outlook

First recorded in 1660–70; out- + look

Example Sentences

Asia-Pacific economies face a challenging time ahead as the fallout of the Middle East conflict threatens to fan inflation and curb growth, the Asian Development Bank says in its latest outlook.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

The recent private-credit market dislocation prompted ratings provider Moody’s Ratings to change its outlook for the business development companies sector to negative from stable to reflect increased redemption pressures.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 9, 2026

A crypto rally would change the outlook for Circle, Compass Point said.

From Barron's • Apr. 9, 2026

The stock surged 8.5% after the company said late Wednesday that it had grown more cautious on its outlook for demand, but that beer sales had crept higher during its fourth quarter.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 9, 2026

Just a month after a note in her medical record said she was fine, another doctor wrote, “In view of the rapid extension of the disease process the outlook is quite poor.”

From "The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks" by Rebecca Skloot

Related Words

• chance
• expectation
• forecast
• opportunity
• possibility
• prospect
• risk