Phrasal verbs "throw out" vs "toss out"

Differences between throw out and toss out

Throw out and toss out are very similar phrasal verbs that both mean to get rid of something. However, throw out is a more forceful action, implying that the item being discarded is no longer useful or needed, while toss out is a more casual action, often used when getting rid of something that is still in good condition.

Meanings and Definitions: throw out vs toss out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Throw out

  • 1Get rid of.

    I THREW OUT all my old clothes to make some space in my wardrobe.

  • 2Dislocate.

    Edward slipped on the ice and THREW OUT his shoulder.

  • 3Reject.

    The committee THREW the proposal OUT.

  • 4Produce heat, fumes.

    The car THROWS OUT a lot of smoke.

  • 5Expel.

    The school THREW him OUT for smoking.

Toss out

  • 1To mention or suggest something casually or without much thought.

    I just tossed that phrase out to get the discussion going.

  • 2To throw away or get rid of something.

    She’s tossed out the bathroom scales!

Usage Examples: throw out, toss out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

throw out

Example

I need to throw out the expired food from the fridge.

Example

She throws out her old magazines every month.

toss out

Example

I need to toss out the old magazines.

Example

She tosses out the spoiled food from the fridge.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Throw out

To eliminate or dispose of something that is no longer wanted or needed.

Example

I need to get rid of these old clothes that don't fit me anymore.

To throw away or reject something as useless or unwanted.

Example

He decided to discard the broken vase instead of trying to fix it.

To dispose of something as trash or worthless material.

Example

I'm going to junk this old computer since it's too slow to use.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Toss out

To donate or give something to someone else who may find it useful.

Example

I'm going to give away these books to the library instead of tossing them out.

To give something to someone else who may find it useful or enjoyable.

Example

I'm going to pass on this sweater to my sister since it doesn't fit me well.

To give something to someone else to take care of or use.

Example

I'm going to hand off this project to my colleague since I don't have time to work on it anymore.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “throw”

Phrasal Verbs with “toss”

Differences in throw out vs toss out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: throw out or toss out?

Both throw out and toss out are commonly used in everyday conversation, but throw out is slightly more common. This is because it is a more forceful action and is often used when someone wants to emphasize that they are getting rid of something for good.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of throw out and toss out

Both throw out and toss out are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions such as 'dispose of' or 'discard' can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of throw out and toss out

The tone of throw out and toss out can differ based on context. Throw out often carries a more negative or frustrated tone, while toss out typically has a more casual and lighthearted tone.

throw out & toss out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Throw out

Synonyms

Toss out

Synonyms

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