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

Explanation

The word outlook describes a belief about the future. Your outlook on the awful present situation might make your outlook for the future turn grim. The noun outlook can also mean the practice of looking out. A guard's outlook on the bank vault must stay watchful and attentive in case there's an attempted robbery. Your outlook on your first job out of college was one of promise and excitement. The word can also mean a characteristic mental attitude that determines how you will handle situations. A pessimistic outlook on life will make you see only the negative.

Example Sentences

But Richard Carter, head of fixed interest research at Quilter Cheviot, said the outlook suggested a similar pattern of falling payroll number could continue "for some time".

From BBC • May 19, 2026

Germany's TUI, the world's largest tour operator, cut its profit outlook last month and withdrew its revenue guidance as it warned of "consumer caution" driven by the Middle East war.

From Barron's • May 18, 2026

This has inspired Wall Street analysts to dramatically increase their earnings forecasts for 2026 and beyond, although the improving outlook has largely been driven by a handful of companies, primarily semiconductor and energy names.

From MarketWatch • May 17, 2026

For Nicholas Pinnock, who plays successful actor Solomon, that realism is what makes the show feel distinctly British in its outlook.

From BBC • May 16, 2026

The structure and organization of early African societies in this country fascinated me very much and greatly influenced the evolution of my political outlook.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela

Related Words

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