看好

• Pinyin: kàn hǎo
• Hanzi breakdown: 看 = 手 + 目, to look; 好 = 女 + 子, good

Meaning

To be optimistic about; to favor; to watch carefully. Having positive expectations or keeping close watch.

Two main uses: (1) to be bullish/optimistic about something's prospects (看好市场 = bullish on the market); (2) to watch/mind carefully (看好孩子 = keep an eye on the kids). Context determines meaning. Common in business, investment, and childcare contexts.

Examples

1. 很多投资者都看好这家公司的未来发展前景。 Many investors are optimistic about this company's future development prospects.
2. 带孩子出门一定要看好，不能让他乱跑。 When taking kids out, you must watch them carefully and not let them run around.
3. 分析师普遍看好明年的经济形势。 Analysts are generally bullish on next year's economic situation.

Usage Guide

Context: business, investment, childcare

Tone: confident

Do Say

• 我很看好这个项目。(I'm very optimistic about this project.)
• 看好你的东西，别丢了。(Watch your things carefully; don't lose them.)

Don't Say

• 混淆两个意思导致歧义 (看好 can mean 'be optimistic' or 'watch carefully' — make sure context is clear)

Origin & History

Compound of 看 (to look/view) + 好 (good/well). Either 'to view favorably' or 'to watch well.'

Cultural Context

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal