Phrasal verbs "break out" vs "want out"

Differences between break out and want out

Break out means to escape from a place or situation, often with force or suddenness. Want out means to desire to leave a situation or place, usually because it is unpleasant or uncomfortable.

Meanings and Definitions: break out vs want out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Break out

• 1. Start ( war, conflict ).

  They're worried that war will BREAK OUT.

Want out

• 1. Want to leave a relationship or arrangement.

  Jackie wasn't happy with her marriage and WANTED OUT.

Usage Examples: break out, want out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

break out

Example

They're worried that war will break out.

Example

When a fire breaks out, it's important to stay calm and evacuate the building.

want out

Example

She wants out of the toxic work environment.

Example

He wants out of the relationship because he feels unhappy.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Break out

escape

To get away from a place or situation, often by using force or cunning.

Example

The prisoners managed to escape from the maximum-security prison by digging a tunnel.

flee

To run away from a dangerous or unpleasant situation.

Example

The civilians had to flee their homes due to the approaching hurricane.

burst out

To suddenly and forcefully break through something.

Example

The firefighters had to burst out the door to rescue the trapped family from the burning house.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Want out

get out

To leave a place or situation, often because it is unpleasant or uncomfortable.

Example

She couldn't stand the toxic work environment anymore and decided to get out of the company.

make an exit

To leave a situation or place in a polite or graceful manner.

Example

He thanked the hosts for the lovely dinner and made a discreet exit before the party got too loud.

break free

To escape from a situation or relationship that is holding you back or causing harm.

Example

She finally found the courage to break free from the abusive relationship and start a new life.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “break”

• break in
• break out of
• break out in
• break down
• break up

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

• pan out
• shut out
• spill out
• bash out
• black out

Differences in break out vs want out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: break out or want out?

In daily conversation, want out is more common than break out. This is because the desire to leave an unpleasant situation is a common feeling that people experience regularly. On the other hand, break out is less common and usually used in specific situations such as prison breaks or riots.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of break out and want out

Break out and want out are both informal phrases that are suitable for everyday conversations. However, want out can be used in more formal settings such as business or academic contexts when expressing a desire to leave a situation or organization.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of break out and want out

The tone of break out and want out can differ based on context. Break out often carries a sense of urgency or danger, while want out typically has a more resigned or frustrated tone.

break out & want out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Break out

Synonyms

• begin
• start
• commence
• ignite
• arise
• emerge
• erupt
• burst forth

Antonyms

• end
• cease
• subside
• conclude
• terminate
• finish
• calm down
• die down

Want out

Synonyms

• desire to leave
• wish to exit
• seek to quit
• aim to depart
• hope to end

Antonyms

• want in
• desire to join
• wish to enter
• seek to participate
• aim to engage