Overlook

To overlook is to fail to notice or consider something, whether it's a detail, an opportunity, or someone's feelings. It can also mean to disregard something deliberately or to have a view from above, like a building overlooking a landscape. Furthermore, to overlook something can imply excusing or pardoning someone's behavior, essentially turning a blind eye to it. The core meaning revolves around a failure to give something the attention it deserves or is expected. The context dictates whether it's an accident, a conscious choice, or a matter of perspective.

Overlook meaning with examples

• During the audit, the investigator overlooked a crucial financial transaction, leading to an incomplete understanding of the company's financial health. This oversight caused significant problems later. If they hadn't overlooked the crucial financial detail, the investigation would have gone much more smoothly, providing a better representation of their financial standing. The mistake had serious consequences.
• The committee overlooked several strong candidates during the hiring process, focusing solely on those with Ivy League degrees. This prejudiced approach failed to consider the diverse skills of many highly qualified applicants, potentially missing the best pick. If they hadn't overlooked them, they would have seen some of the candidates' incredible talent, which would have provided a better pool to choose from.
• From the penthouse suite, the hotel room overlooked a stunning panorama of the city skyline, providing guests with a breathtaking view. The room's large windows offered a sweeping vista of the bustling city. They had a great view, and the building was well designed, offering a great space and a beautiful location for anyone staying.
• The manager, sympathetic to her employee's personal struggles, chose to overlook his occasional tardiness, prioritizing his overall performance and work ethic. He turned a blind eye to his employee's late arrivals and tried not to let it affect his performance. He let the employee's other contributions outweigh this issue.