Definition of lookout

lookoutnoun

coi chưng

/ˈlʊkaʊt//ˈlʊkaʊt/

The word "lookout" originated in the 15th century as a combination of the words "look" and "out." It originally meant "the act of looking out" or "a person who looks out." Its use evolved to describe a position or place from which one can observe or watch, often for danger or threats. This meaning is likely linked to its use in maritime contexts, where lookouts were stationed on high points of ships to spot hazards. Over time, "lookout" also came to signify a person responsible for warning of danger or providing information, further solidifying its connection to vigilance and observation.

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a place for watching from, especially for danger or an enemy coming towards you

một nơi để quan sát, đặc biệt là khi có nguy hiểm hoặc kẻ thù đang tiến về phía bạn

Example:
  • a lookout point/tower

    một điểm/tháp quan sát

  • The Coast Guard has stationed a lookout at the lighthouse to ensure safe passage for vessels in the area.

    Lực lượng bảo vệ bờ biển đã bố trí một trạm gác tại ngọn hải đăng để đảm bảo an toàn cho tàu thuyền qua lại trong khu vực.

  • After spotting a suspect, the police officer signaled for backup and took up a lookout position to prevent the individual from escaping.

    Sau khi phát hiện nghi phạm, cảnh sát đã ra hiệu tiếp viện và vào vị trí quan sát để ngăn chặn nghi phạm trốn thoát.

  • The astronauts on board the space station make frequent lookouts using their telescopes to search for signs of life on distant planets.

    Các phi hành gia trên trạm vũ trụ thường xuyên sử dụng kính viễn vọng để quan sát các dấu hiệu sự sống trên các hành tinh xa xôi.

  • During a storm, the boat captain appointed a lookout to scan the horizon for potential dangers and guide them to safety.

    Trong cơn bão, thuyền trưởng sẽ chỉ định một người quan sát để quan sát đường chân trời để phát hiện những nguy hiểm tiềm ẩn và hướng dẫn họ đến nơi an toàn.

a person who has the responsibility of watching for something, especially danger, etc.

một người có trách nhiệm trông chừng một cái gì đó, đặc biệt là nguy hiểm, v.v.

Example:
  • One of the men stood at the door to act as a lookout.

    Một người đứng ở cửa làm nhiệm vụ canh gác.

Related words and phrases

Idioms

be somebody’s lookout
(British English, informal)used to say that you do not think somebody’s actions are sensible, but that it is their own problem or responsibility
  • If he wants to waste his money, that's his lookout.
    • be on the lookout (for somebody/something) | keep a lookout (for somebody/something)
    (informal)to watch carefully for somebody/something in order to avoid danger, etc. or in order to find something you want
  • The public should be on the lookout for symptoms of the disease.
  • The guards have to keep a sharp lookout for anything suspicious.