Definition of watch out

watch outphrasal verb

hãy cẩn thận

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The phrase "watch out" is a helpful warning to draw someone's attention to a potential danger or hazard. Its origin can be traced back to the late 19th century in the United States. In its original form, "watch out" was spelled as "wacht out" and was used to instruct people to be vigilant and attentive, particularly during night watch duties. The term "wacht" referred to a scheduled watch, or duty, which was typically performed by soldiers or sailors. As the meaning of the phrase evolved, it came to also denote a warning or a caution against potential danger. This usage first appeared in the early 1900s in phrases such as "watch out for the slippery steps" and "watch out for the speeding car." The two-word phrase "watch out" grew in popularity rapidly due to its simplicity and versatility, as it could be applied to a wide range of potential hazards, from slipping on a slippery floor to crossing a busy street. Over time, the phrase "watch out" has become an integral part of spoken and written English in various parts of the world, highlighting its universal relevance and practicality. It is a classic example of how a simple, concise phrase can make a significant impact by providing a useful nudge towards safety and wellbeing.

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Example:
  • As you step onto the busy street, watch out for cars speeding by.

    Khi bước vào con phố đông đúc, hãy chú ý đến những chiếc xe đang chạy nhanh qua.

  • Be cautious when walking on the icy sidewalk, watch out for slippery spots.

    Hãy cẩn thận khi đi trên vỉa hè đóng băng, chú ý những chỗ trơn trượt.

  • Approach that dog with caution, watch out for its territorial behavior.

    Hãy thận trọng khi tiếp cận con chó, chú ý đến hành vi chiếm hữu lãnh thổ của nó.

  • Keep an eye out for falling branches during the storm, watch out for potential danger.

    Hãy chú ý đến các cành cây rơi trong cơn bão, coi chừng nguy hiểm tiềm ẩn.

  • Watch out for the approaching biker on the bike path, give them enough space to pass.

    Hãy chú ý đến người đi xe đạp đang tới gần trên đường dành cho xe đạp, hãy giữ đủ khoảng cách để họ vượt qua.

  • Careful with that ladder, watch out for dangerously loose rungs.

    Cẩn thận khi sử dụng thang, chú ý đến những bậc thang lỏng lẻo nguy hiểm.

  • As you hike through the mountains, keep a close watch for any signs of wildlife, watch out for potential attacks.

    Khi đi bộ đường dài qua núi, hãy chú ý theo dõi mọi dấu hiệu của động vật hoang dã, đề phòng các cuộc tấn công tiềm ẩn.

  • Avoid walking too close to the edge of the cliff, watch out for steep drops.

    Tránh đi quá gần mép vách đá, hãy cẩn thận với những vực sâu.

  • Look out for approaching traffic when crossing the street, watch out for cars that may not see you.

    Hãy chú ý đến các phương tiện đang tới gần khi băng qua đường, chú ý đến những xe có thể không nhìn thấy bạn.

  • Be mindful of tripping hazards around your house, watch out for objects that may cause a fall.

    Hãy chú ý đến những nguy cơ vấp ngã xung quanh nhà, hãy cẩn thận với những đồ vật có thể gây ngã.