Phrasal verbs "step out" vs "walk out"

Differences between step out and walk out

Step out usually means to briefly leave a place or situation, while walk out generally means to leave a place or situation in a more dramatic or abrupt way.

Meanings and Definitions: step out vs walk out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Step out

  • 1Leave a place for a very short time.

    They've STEPPED OUT for a cigarette.

Walk out

  • 1Leave work because of a dispute with the management.

    The workers WALKED OUT because the felt that safety wasn't being handled correctly.

  • 2Leave a place angrily or because you are not satisfied.

    The film was a bore so I WALKED OUT halfway through.

Usage Examples: step out, walk out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

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.

walk out

Example

She decided to walk out of the meeting because she felt disrespected.

Example

He walks out of the room whenever they start arguing.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Step out

To take a short break or rest from a task or activity.

Example

I need to take a breather and clear my mind before I continue working on this project.

To briefly leave a situation or conversation.

Example

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

To briefly leave a place or situation.

Example

I'm just going to pop out and grab a coffee. I'll be back in a few minutes.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Walk out

To resign or leave a job or position.

Example

After years of mistreatment, she decided to quit her job and find a better opportunity.

To leave a place or situation in an angry or dramatic way.

Example

After the argument, he stormed out of the room, slamming the door behind him.

To leave a situation or group that is failing or doomed to fail.

Example

When the company started losing money, many employees decided to abandon ship and look for other jobs.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “step”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: step out or walk out?

In daily conversation, people use walk out more often than step out. This is because walk out is used for more intense situations such as quitting a job or leaving a relationship. Step out is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about taking a short break from something. So, while both phrases are used, walk out is more common in everyday conversation.

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

Step out and walk 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 step out and walk out

The tone of step out and walk out can differ based on context. Step out often carries a neutral or calm tone when related to taking a break or leaving temporarily, while walk out typically has a more negative or confrontational tone, especially when referring to leaving a job or relationship.

step out & walk out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Step out

Synonyms

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

Antonyms

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