The phrasal verb break out is a versatile English expression with several distinct meanings depending on the context. Its primary definitions include:
The meaning is semi-idiomatic; while "break" and "out" provide a sense of movement or change, the specific applications (like starting a war) must be learned as a unit. The register is generally neutral, though it can lean toward informal when used to mean "bringing something out."
Break out functions as an intransitive or transitive phrasal verb:
Separability: When used transitively (meaning to bring something out), the verb is separable. You can say "Break out the tools" or "Break the tools out," though the former is more common. When it means to start suddenly or escape, it is inseparable.
What sounds unnatural: Using "break out" for a scheduled event (e.g., "The meeting broke out at 9 AM" is incorrect; use "started"). Also, avoid using it as a noun unless you hyphenate it or write it as one word (breakout).
These examples are sourced from break out on Ludwig.guru.
"Why did hostilities break out?" — economist.com
"Break out in hives." — theguardian.com
"This is how bands "break out"." — wikihow.com
"Break out the lie detectors." — newyorker.com
"Arguments break out regularly." — vice.com
| Phrase | Context |
|---|---|
| erupt | More formal; specifically used for violence, laughter, or volcanoes. |
| escape from | A direct, neutral alternative for leaving confinement. |
| set in | Used for weather or feelings that start and are likely to continue. |
| unveil | More formal than "break out" when showing something new for the first time. |
| burst into | Used for sudden changes in state, like "burst into tears" or "burst into flames." |
| Expression | Meaning | Grammatical Pattern | Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| break out | To start suddenly, escape, or prepare for use | Verb + Particle (separable/inseparable) | Neutral to Informal |
Whether break out is separable depends on its meaning. When it is used transitively to mean bringing something out for use, you can place the object between the words, though keeping them together is more common. However, when it is intransitive, such as when a fight starts or someone escapes, the two words must never be separated.
While both terms describe a sudden start, erupt is more formal and carries a stronger connotation of intensity or pressure, like a volcano or a riot. Break out is a more general phrasal verb that can apply to a wider range of situations, including positive ones like "breaking out" a bottle of wine.
No, this is a common error where the noun form is confused with the verb form. Learners often confuse the verb break out with the noun outbreak, incorrectly using the noun form in a verbal position. You should say "the virus broke out" (verb) rather than using "outbreak" as an action.
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