Phrasal verbs "go out" vs "step out"

Differences between go out and step out

Go out usually means to leave one's home or current location to go somewhere else, especially for social activities or entertainment. Step out generally means to leave a place briefly, often to take care of something or to make a quick errand.

Meanings and Definitions: go out vs step out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Go out

  • 1Stop burning, be extinguished.

    The candle WENT OUT and left us in darkness.

  • 2Leave a place.

    He WENT OUT last night.

  • 3Go on strike.

    The workers WENT OUT for more money.

  • 4Become infashionable.

    That sort of the WENT OUT last year.

  • 5Move backwards, of a tide.

    The tide GOES OUT in the evening.

  • 6Be eliminated in a competition.

    England WENT OUT in the second round.

  • 7Be transmitted.

    The item WENT OUT on the news yesterday.

  • 8Be sent.

    The newsletter WENT OUT last night.

  • 9Intend.

    I didn't GO OUT to offend them.

Step out

  • 1Leave a place for a very short time.

    They've STEPPED OUT for a cigarette.

Usage Examples: go out, step out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

go out

Example

I usually go out with my friends on weekends.

Example

She goes out for a walk every morning.

step out

Example

I need to step out for a minute to make a phone call.

Example

She steps out every afternoon to grab a coffee.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go out

hang out

To spend time with someone in a relaxed or casual way.

Example

I'm planning to hang out with my friends at the park this weekend.

To go out and enjoy the nightlife of a city or town.

Example

After a long week of work, I like to hit the town and dance the night away.

To go out and have a wild and exciting time, often involving drinking and partying.

Example

We decided to paint the town red on New Year's Eve and had a blast!

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Step out

To leave a place briefly, often to run an errand or take care of something.

Example

I need to pop out to the store and grab some milk.

To leave a place quietly or discreetly, often to avoid being noticed.

Example

She decided to slip out of the party early and avoid the awkward goodbyes.

To leave a situation or conversation briefly, often to take a break or gather one's thoughts.

Example

Excuse me, I need to step away and make a phone call.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Differences in go out vs step out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: go out or step out?

In daily conversation, people use go out more often than step out. This is because go out is used for a wider range of activities such as going to the movies, having dinner with friends, or attending a party. Step out is less common and usually used in specific situations where someone needs to leave quickly for a short period of time.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go out and step out

Go out and step 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 go out and step out

The tone of go out and step out can differ based on context. Go out often carries an excited or enthusiastic tone when related to social activities or entertainment, while step out typically has a practical and urgent tone, especially when referring to leaving a place briefly.

go out & step out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Step out

Synonyms

  • leave briefly
  • go out
  • exit momentarily
  • pop out
  • slip out
  • duck out

Antonyms

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!