Differences between rat out and winkle out
Rat out means to inform on someone, usually to the authorities or someone in authority, while winkle out means to extract information or something that is hidden or difficult to obtain.
Meanings and Definitions: rat out vs winkle out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Rat out
- 1Inform the authorities about someone.
He RATTED me OUT to the police.
Winkle out
- 1Find or get something that takes a great deal of effort.
It took me a while to WINKLE the truth OUT of him.
Usage Examples: rat out, winkle out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
rat out
Example
She wouldn't rat me out even if she knew the truth.
Example
He often rats out his friends when they're in trouble.
winkle out
Example
She managed to winkle out the secret from her friend.
Example
He winkles out the truth from the suspect.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Rat out
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Winkle out
dig up
To find or uncover something that is hidden or difficult to obtain.
Example
She managed to dig up some old family photos from the attic.
To remove or obtain something that is embedded, hidden, or difficult to obtain.
Example
The dentist had to extract the patient's wisdom teeth due to overcrowding in their mouth.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “rat”
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
- reason out
- freak out
- stake out
- rush out
- fizzle out
Differences in rat out vs winkle out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: rat out or winkle out?
In everyday conversation, rat out is more common than winkle out. This is because rat out is used more frequently in situations where someone is reporting bad behavior or wrongdoing. Winkle out is a less common phrase and is used more in specific contexts such as investigative journalism or espionage.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of rat out and winkle out
Rat out and winkle out are both informal phrases. However, rat out can be considered slightly more informal due to its negative connotation. Winkle out is a less common phrase and may not be understood by everyone, so it's best to use alternative expressions in more formal settings.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of rat out and winkle out
The tone of rat out and winkle out can differ based on context. Rat out often carries a negative or disapproving tone, especially when someone is informing on a friend or colleague. On the other hand, winkle out typically has a curious or investigative tone, especially when trying to uncover hidden information or secrets.
