English · Greetings & Phrases
watch out
/wɒtʃ aʊt/
[/wɒtʃ aʊt/]
be careful
Intermediateverb
Definition
To be careful and alert to a danger or problem.
Example
Watch out for the icy patches on the pavement when you walk to the bus stop tomorrow.
Watch out for the icy patches on the pavement when you walk to the bus stop tomorrow.
Etymology
From 'watch' plus 'out', combining vigilance with the outward direction of attention.
How & Where It’s Used
Informal warning, often followed by 'for' to specify the hazard.