WordValewatch out
to be careful
In more detail
1. (verb) to be careful and alert to danger or problems
2. (verb) to look at something closely or pay attention to it
Examples
- Watch out for that slippery step on the stairs!
- Watch out, the bus is coming!
How to use watch out
Watch out is an informal phrasal verb used as an exclamation or imperative to warn someone of immediate danger or a problematic situation. It is more urgent and colloquial than synonyms like 'be careful' and is commonly used in spoken English. The first meaning (alertness to danger) is much more frequent than the second meaning (close observation).
Common phrases
- watch out for
- watch out!, you'll hurt yourself
- watch out when crossing the street
- watch out or you'll regret it
Synonyms
be careful · be alert · beware · look out · pay attention
Opposites
ignore · overlook · disregard
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use 'watch out' as a standalone statement about paying attention in neutral contexts (e.g., 'I watch out for typos') rather than as a warning; the verb 'watch' alone or 'pay attention' is more natural in such cases.
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