Differences between freak out and gross out
Freak out means to become very scared, anxious, or upset about something, while gross out means to cause someone to feel disgusted or repulsed.
Meanings and Definitions: freak out vs gross out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Freak out
- 1Become very disturbed or angry.
She FREAKED OUT completely when she didn't get the grades to get into university.
Gross out
- 1To disgust or repel someone.
I am going to gross out an entire European nation with my bloody cuticles.
Usage Examples: freak out, gross out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
freak out
Example
I always freak out when I see a spider.
Example
She freaks out whenever she has to speak in public.
gross out
Example
The sight of the rotten food grossed out everyone in the room.
Example
The smell of the garbage grosses out the neighbors.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Freak out
To feel sudden and intense fear or anxiety.
Example
She started to panic when she realized she lost her phone.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Gross out
To cause someone to feel strong revulsion or aversion.
Example
The smell of the garbage disgusted her so much that she had to leave the room.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
- hound out
- ferret out
- roll out
- be out
- flounce out
Differences in freak out vs gross out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: freak out or gross out?
In daily conversation, people use freak out more often than gross out. This is because freak out is used for a wider range of situations, such as being scared or worried about something, while gross out is more specific to situations that cause disgust. However, both phrases are commonly used in informal conversations.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of freak out and gross out
Freak out and gross out are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are not suitable for formal settings like business or academic contexts. In these contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more professional tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of freak out and gross out
The tone of freak out and gross out can differ based on context. Freak out often carries a negative or anxious tone, while gross out typically has a more playful or humorous tone, especially when used among friends.