The bright star you are seeing in the southwest sky is most likely Venus, often referred to as the ‘Evening Star’ or ‘Morning Star’ due to its bright visibility. Venus is the second planet from the Sun and its proximity to Earth contributes to its brightness.
During certain times of the year, Venus can be particularly prominent in the evening after sunset or in the morning before sunrise. Its brilliance can sometimes outshine everything else, making it easily recognizable. If you notice a bright, shining object close to the horizon, especially around twilight, there’s a good chance it’s Venus.
To confirm, you can check a star chart or an astronomy app specific to your location and time. These tools help you identify celestial bodies in real-time and can provide additional information about the best times to view planets and stars in the night sky.