Basic Details
Word: Overlook
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: To fail to notice or consider something; to disregard.
Synonyms: Ignore, miss, disregard
Antonyms: Notice, observe, pay attention to
Idioms and Phrases
- Overlook the details: To neglect important information or aspects of a situation. Example: "If you overlook the details in your project, you might lose marks."
- Can't see the forest for the trees: To become so focused on small details that you fail to see the larger situation. Example: "He can't see the forest for the trees; he worries about one mistake instead of the overall success."
Usage Examples
Example 1: She tends to overlook minor errors in her friends' work because she values their overall effort.
Example 2: It is important not to overlook safety procedures when conducting experiments in the laboratory.
Example 3: He overlooked the opportunity to apply for the scholarship due to his busy schedule.
Fun Fact
The word overlook originated in the late 14th century, derived from the Old English word oferlocan, which combines ofer meaning over and locan meaning to look.
Famous Quote
"The biggest communication problem is we do not listen to understand. We listen to reply." Anonymous (This highlights the importance of not overlooking what others say.)
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "overlook" mean?
a) To pay close attention to
b) To fail to notice
c) To explore thoroughly
d) To correct mistakes
Answer: b) To fail to notice
2. Which of these is a synonym of "overlook"?
a) Miss
b) Notice
c) Acknowledge
d) Observe
Answer: a) Miss
3. What is the opposite of "overlook"?
a) Ignore
b) Disregard
c) Observe
d) Forget
Answer: c) Observe
4. Which sentence uses "overlook" correctly?
a) I will overlook you at the party.
b) She decided to overlook the important details.
c) He quickly overlooked the book.
d) They overlook the mountain every day.
Answer: b) She decided to overlook the important details.
5. Which idiom is related to the idea of overlooking?
a) Overlook the details
b) Can't see the forest for the trees
c) Burn the midnight oil
d) An arm and a leg
Answer: b) Can't see the forest for the trees
