What are the definitions of “blurt out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Say something quickly without thinking, especially if you shouldn't.
I was really angry when he BLURTED OUT the secret.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “blurt out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb blurt out is to say something quickly without thinking, especially when it is something that should not be said. It often happens when someone is surprised, excited, or emotional.
What are the different verb forms of “blurt out”?
| Root Verb | blurt out |
| Third Person Singular Present | blurts out |
| Present Participle | blurting out |
| Simple Past | blurted out |
| Past Participle | blurted out |
Example
She couldn't help but blurt out the surprise party plans.
Example
He always blurts out the answers in class without raising his hand.
Example
She is blurting out her feelings without thinking about the consequences.
Example
I accidentally blurted out the secret to my friend.
Example
The news was blurted out before anyone could stop her.
What kind of phrasal verb is “blurt out”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“blurt out” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She blurted out the secret.
Example
He blurted the answer out in class.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“blurt out” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She blurted out the secret.
Example
He blurted the answer out in class.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “blurt out”?
Good things to know
Does “blurt out” have an informal or formal tone?
Blurt out is a neutral to informal phrasal verb. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and casual contexts. It may not be suitable for very formal settings, where more formal alternatives like 'reveal' or 'disclose' might be preferred.
