Differences between act on and act out
Act on means to take action based on information or advice, while act out means to express one's emotions or feelings through behavior.
Meanings and Definitions: act on vs act out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Act on
- 1To take action because of something like information received.
The police were ACTING ON a tip from an informer and caught the gang red handed.
- 2Affect.
The medicine only ACTS ON infected tissue.
Act out
- 1Perform something with actions and gestures..
They ACTED OUT the story on stage.
- 2Express an emotion in your behaviour.
Their anger is ACTED OUT in their antisocial behaviour.
Usage Examples: act on, act out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
act on
Example
The manager decided to act on the employee's suggestion.
Example
She acts on the advice of her mentor.
act out
Example
The children love to act out their favorite fairy tales.
Example
She acts out the scenes from her favorite movies.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Act on
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Act out
express oneself
To communicate one's thoughts, feelings, or ideas through words, actions, or art.
Example
She found it easier to express herself through painting than through speaking.
play a role
To act or perform a character in a play, movie, or other performance.
Example
He was excited to play the lead role in the school play and practiced his lines every day.
Differences in act on vs act out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: act on or act out?
In daily conversation, people use act on more often than act out. This is because act on is used in a variety of situations such as decision-making, problem-solving, and following instructions. Act out is less common and is mainly used when talking about expressing emotions or performing a role.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of act on and act out
Act on and act out are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of act on and act out
The tone of act on and act out can differ based on context. Act on often carries a practical and decisive tone when related to taking action, while act out typically has an emotional or theatrical tone, especially when referring to expressing oneself or performing a role.