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Overlook: meaning, definitions and examples

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overlook

 

[ˌoʊvərˈlʊk ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

view from above

To look down on something from a higher position, often a scenic overlook or a balcony. It can also mean to fail to notice or consider something.

Synonyms

neglect, observe, survey.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
overlook

Can also mean to have a view from above or from a higher position, often used in describing physical locations.

  • The balcony overlooks the garden.
  • The hotel room overlooks the beach.
survey

Commonly used when referring to examining or measuring something in detail, often for research or assessment purposes.

  • We need to survey the area before starting construction.
  • They conducted a survey to gather customer feedback.
observe

Used when describing the act of watching or studying something carefully, often in a scientific or detailed manner.

  • Scientists observe animal behavior in the wild.
  • She observed the painting closely.
neglect

Typically used in scenarios where someone fails to care for something or someone properly, often leading to negative outcomes. Has a negative connotation.

  • He neglected his responsibilities as a parent.
  • The garden was neglected and overgrown.

Examples of usage

  • He stood on the overlook and gazed at the breathtaking view below.
  • She tended to overlook the small details in her rush to finish the project.
Context #2 | Noun

hotel room with a view

A room in a hotel or a house that has a view, especially a scenic one.

Synonyms

room with a view, scenic room, view room.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
overlook

When spelled the same but used differently, this word can also mean to miss or fail to notice something. This usage has a slightly negative connotation.

  • Make sure not to overlook any mistakes in your report.
  • She felt hurt because he had overlooked her contribution.
view room

This term is used similarly to 'room with a view' but is more direct and less descriptive. It's often found in hotel listings.

  • We upgraded to a view room at the last minute.
  • The view room costs extra, but it's worth it.
scenic room

This phrase is often used to describe a room specifically designed to offer picturesque views, usually referring to natural landscapes. It's common in travel and tourism advertisements.

  • They chose the scenic room for their honeymoon to enjoy the mountains.
  • The resort offers scenic rooms that overlook lush green hills.
room with a view

Use this phrase when you want to highlight that a room allows you to see something beautiful or interesting outside. It's commonly used in the context of hotels or real estate.

  • We booked a room with a view of the ocean.
  • The apartment is a bit pricey, but it's a room with a view of the park.

Examples of usage

  • We booked the overlook room for our anniversary to enjoy the sunset.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'overlook' comes from Old English words meaning 'to look over,' emphasizing a visual aspect.
  • It was first recorded in English in the 14th century, often used to indicate both physical observation and neglect.

Psychology

  • People often overlook details due to cognitive biases, like focusing on what's most important at the moment.
  • This phenomenon is sometimes called 'inattentional blindness,' where something unexpected is missed because attention is elsewhere.

Literature

  • In classic literature, characters may overlook important events or feelings, leading to misunderstandings or tragedy.
  • Authors use this technique to create tension, where a small detail that characters overlook has big consequences.

Architecture

  • Overlooking can describe architectural design, where buildings are positioned to have a view over a landscape or city.
  • Many homes or restaurants strive for a design that allows patrons to overlook a beautiful view, enhancing the experience.

Pop Culture

  • In movies, characters often overlook key clues that lead to plot twists, creating suspense.
  • The song 'Overlook' by various artists explores themes of missed opportunities and regret, resonating with many listeners.

Translations

Translations of the word "overlook" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ignorar

🇮🇳 अनदेखा करना

🇩🇪 übersehen

🇮🇩 mengabaikan

🇺🇦 ігнорувати

🇵🇱 ignorować

🇯🇵 見落とす

🇫🇷 ignorer

🇪🇸 ignorar

🇹🇷 görmezden gelmek

🇰🇷 무시하다

🇸🇦 تجاهل

🇨🇿 přehlédnout

🇸🇰 prehliadnuť

🇨🇳 忽视

🇸🇮 spregledati

🇮🇸 hunsa

🇰🇿 елемеу

🇬🇪 გადაიხედოს

🇦🇿 gözardı etmək

🇲🇽 ignorar

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #10,026, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.