Phrase guide

look out for number one

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To act in one's own interests; to act in a manner advantageous primarily to oneself.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

Alternative form of look out for number one.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: alt-of, alternative

No example sentence was provided for this meaning.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

From look out for + number one (“oneself”). Attested since the 1830s at the latest.

Across languages

Translations

4 source translations are retained for this English entry.

  • Polish: dbać o swój własny interes — Translations
  • Spanish: arrimar el ascua a su sardina — Translations
  • Spanish: barrer para dentro — Translations
  • Spanish: barrer para casa — Translations