Outlook

Definition

Outlook predominantly refers to a person's perspective or attitude towards situations and life. Additionally, it can mean a view or prospect, and in digital contexts, it can refer to Microsoft's personal information manager software.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈaʊtˌlʊk/
• Respelling: OUT-look (with "OUT" as in "out," and "look" as in "look")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈaʊtˌlʊk/
• Respelling: OUT-look (similar to American English, with "OUT" as in "out," and "look" as in "look")

In both dialects, "outlook" places the primary stress on the first syllable, "OUT." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, focusing on the clear articulation of "OUT-look."

Etymology

The term "outlook" is formed from the combination of "out-" suggesting beyond or external, and "look," implying a gaze or perspective. Historically, it was used to describe the act of looking out, or the view seen this way. The figurative sense of "outlook," referring to one's mental view or disposition, emerged later.

Derivatives

• Outlooker
• Outlookish
• Outlookless
• Outlook-like
• Outlooking

Synonyms

• Perspective
• Viewpoint
• Attitude

Antonyms

None

Usage

As a Noun

• In Personal Context: Outlook might refer to an individual's mental attitude or disposition toward events, scenarios, or life in general.
• In Geographical Context: It can describe a particular scene or view, especially one seen from a specific location.
• In Digital Context: "Microsoft Outlook" is a popular personal information manager software, primarily an email client, from Microsoft.

Related Terms

• View
• Standpoint
• Disposition
• Panorama
• Perspective

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Personal Context: A person's general attitude or perspective toward life and their expectations about the future.
• Example: "Despite the challenges, she maintained a positive outlook."

• Geographical Context: The view seen from a particular point, especially a scenic or commanding one.
• Example: "The mountain cabin has a breathtaking outlook over the valley."

• Digital Context: Referring specifically to "Microsoft Outlook", it denotes the email client and personal information management software developed by Microsoft.
• Example: "Please send the meeting invite to my Outlook calendar."