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On the lookout for somebody or something
on the lookout for somebody or something
01
constantly paying attention to a person or thing to prevent a problem, danger, etc.
What is the origin of the idiom "on the lookout for someone or something" and when to use it?
The idiom "on the lookout for someone or something" is used to describe a state of watchfulness or alertness in the search for a specific person or thing. Its origins can be traced to English language use over the years, and it reflects the idea of actively seeking or being attentive to the presence or arrival of someone or something.
Example
The security guards are always on the lookout for unauthorized personnel in the restricted area.
As a wildlife photographer, he's constantly on the lookout for rare and elusive animal species.
When house-hunting, they were on the lookout for a property with a spacious backyard.