Differences between give out and mete out
Give out usually means to distribute or hand out something, while mete out means to administer punishment or justice in a measured or limited way.
Meanings and Definitions: give out vs mete out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Give out
- 1Distribute.
Somebody was GIVING leaflets OUT in front of the underground station.
- 2Stop working, through age or overuse.
I'd been having trouble with my laptop and it finally GAVE OUT at the weekend.
- 3Have no more of a supply.
The water GAVE OUT after a week in the desert.
- 4Make public.
They GAVE the names of the winners OUT last night.
- 5Emit.
The factory GIVES OUT a lot of fumes.
- 6End or finish somewhere.
The path GIVES OUT halfway around the lake.
- 7Make a sound or noise.
She GAVE OUT a moan.
- 8Read the wordings of a hymn or psalm aloud for congregational singing.
He GAVE OUT the psalm.
Mete out
- 1Give people harsh punishments or treatment.
They METED OUT savage penalties to anyone who broke the law.
Usage Examples: give out, mete out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
give out
Example
The teacher will give out the test papers at the start of the class.
Example
She gives out free samples at the mall.
mete out
Example
The judge decided to mete out a severe punishment for the crime.
Example
The strict teacher metes out detentions for even minor infractions.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Give out
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Mete out
To ensure that the law is upheld and that people are treated fairly.
Example
The judge was responsible for administering justice and ensuring that the defendant received a fair trial.
To administer a punishment or consequence for a wrongdoing.
Example
The coach decided to deal out punishment to the player who broke the team's rules.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “give”
Differences in give out vs mete out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: give out or mete out?
In daily conversation, people use give out more often than mete out. This is because give out is used for more routine tasks such as giving out candy on Halloween or distributing flyers. Mete out is not used as much, and it's mainly used when we're talking about administering justice or punishment. So, while both phrases are used, give out is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of give out and mete out
Give out and mete 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 legal contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more professional tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of give out and mete out
The tone of give out and mete out can differ based on context. Give out often carries a friendly or helpful tone when related to distributing items or information, while mete out typically has a serious or stern tone, especially when referring to administering punishment or justice.
