overlook

/ˌoʊvərˈlʊk/
verbIntermediate to fail to notice or consider something
general

to fail to notice or consider something

The editor overlooked several errors in the manuscript.

The editor failed to notice several errors in the manuscript.

💡

Often used when someone unintentionally misses something important.

general

to supervise or watch over something or someone

The manager will overlook the project to ensure it runs smoothly.

The manager will supervise the project to ensure it runs smoothly.

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This meaning is less common but still valid.

Collocations

overlook somethingfail to notice or consider somethingoverlook someonesupervise or watch over someone

Related Phrases

overlook the obviousphrase
to fail to notice something that is clearly visible or apparent
overlook someone's mistakesphrase
to forgive or ignore someone's errors

💡Pro Tip

Context Matters

The meaning of 'overlook' depends heavily on the context. If it's about missing something, it's negative. If it's about supervising, it's neutral or positive.

Gold Rule

Common Usage

The most common meaning of 'overlook' is to fail to notice something, often unintentionally.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English overlooken, from over- + looken (to look).

📝Usage Notes

The verb 'overlook' can have two main meanings: to fail to notice something or to supervise something. The context usually clarifies which meaning is intended.

Word Breakdown

over-
above or beyond
prefix
+
-look
to see or observe
root
English Dictionary