Phrasal verbs "dish out" vs "single out"

Differences between dish out and single out

Dish out means to distribute or give something, usually food or punishment, while single out means to choose or select someone or something from a group for special attention or treatment.

Meanings and Definitions: dish out vs single out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Dish out

  • 1Serve food.

    I DISHED OUT the dinner.

  • 2Give something, usually when you shouldn't.

    Doctors have been DISHING OUT viagra to anyone who asks for it.

  • 3Criticise, when you can't take criticism in return.

    He DISHES it OUT, but gets all hurt when anyone responds.

Single out

  • 1Select or choose one from a group.

    Many people applied for the job but we will SINGLE OUT the best one.

Usage Examples: dish out, single out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

dish out

Example

She always dishes out generous portions of food.

Example

He dishes out the soup to everyone at the table.

single out

Example

The teacher singled out the best student for praise.

Example

She singles out the most talented artists for her gallery.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Dish out

To distribute or give something to a group of people.

Example

The teacher handed out the homework assignments to the students.

To distribute or give something in small portions or amounts.

Example

The charity organization dole out food and supplies to the homeless every week.

serve up

To provide or offer something, usually food or drinks, to someone.

Example

The restaurant served up delicious seafood dishes for dinner.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Single out

To choose or select someone or something from a group.

Example

She picked out the best dress from the store's collection for her sister's wedding.

To select or focus on someone or something for criticism, attack, or scrutiny.

Example

The media targeted the politician for his controversial statements during the election campaign.

To treat someone unfairly or differently based on their race, gender, religion, or other personal characteristics.

Example

The company was sued for discriminating against female employees in promotions and salaries.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “dish”

Differences in dish out vs single out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: dish out or single out?

In daily conversation, people use dish out more often than single out. This is because dish out is used for more daily tasks and routines such as serving food or assigning tasks. Single out is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about selecting someone or something from a group. So, while both phrases are used, dish out is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of dish out and single out

Dish out and single 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 dish out and single out

The tone of dish out and single out can differ based on context. Dish out often carries a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to serving food or assigning tasks, while single out typically has a more serious or negative tone, especially when referring to discrimination or unfair treatment.

dish out & single out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Dish out

Synonyms

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