What does “Out-and-out” mean?
"Out-and-out" means completely or entirely.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He is an out-and-out liar.
Example
She is an out-and-out perfectionist.
Example
The team played an out-and-out offensive game
Is “Out-and-out” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Out-and-out” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Out-and-out” effectively in context?
You can use "Out-and-out" to emphasize that something or someone is completely or entirely a certain way. It is often used to describe extreme characteristics or behaviors. For example, if someone is known for always telling lies, you might say, 'He is an "out-and-out" liar.'
- 1Character Description
She is an out-and-out perfectionist, always striving for flawlessness in everything she does.
- 2Sports
The team played an out-and-out offensive game, focusing solely on attacking and scoring goals.
- 3Politics
The politician was known for his out-and-out support of the new policy, leaving no room for compromise.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Out-and-out” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Out-and-out" is unknown.
Is “Out-and-out” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Out-and-out" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is frequently used to emphasize the extreme nature of something or someone.
What tone does “Out-and-out” have?
"Out-and-out" conveys a tone of emphasis and certainty. It is often used to make a strong statement or to highlight a particular characteristic or behavior.
Can “Out-and-out” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Out-and-out" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts to emphasize complete or extreme qualities. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional writing.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He is an "out-and-out" liar.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'That's "out-and-out" ridiculous!' to express disbelief or strong disagreement.
