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Overlook Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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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.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

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.

Origin of 'overlook'

Main points about word origin

  • 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.

The word 'overlook' originated in the 16th century, combining 'over' and 'look'. It initially referred to physically looking down from a high place. Over time, it gained the additional meaning of failing to notice something. The term 'overlook' has been commonly used in the English language for centuries, evolving to encompass both literal and figurative senses.

See also: look, lookalike, looking, lookout, onlooker, onlookers, outlook, overlooked.

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.