What are the definitions of “bow out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To withdraw or retire from a situation or activity.
She has no plans to bow out of politics just yet.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bow out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bow out is to withdraw or retire from a situation or activity. It often implies leaving gracefully or with dignity.
What are the different verb forms of “bow out”?
| Root Verb | bow out |
| Third Person Singular Present | bows out |
| Present Participle | bowing out |
| Simple Past | bowed out |
| Past Participle | bowed out |
Example
He decided to bow out of the competition due to an injury.
Example
She bows out of the meeting early to catch her flight.
Example
He is bowing out of the project to focus on his family.
Example
They bowed out of the race after realizing they couldn't win.
Example
She had bowed out of the contest gracefully, wishing the other participants good luck.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bow 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.)
Intransitive verb
“bow out” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
After many years of service, he bowed out with a farewell party.
Example
She bowed out of the competition due to personal reasons.
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
“bow 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
After many years of service, he bowed out with a farewell party.
Example
She bowed out of the competition due to personal reasons.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bow out”?
To leave a situation or activity in a dignified and respectful manner, without causing any disruption or embarrassment.
Example
When he realized he couldn't win, he decided to bow out gracefully and support his teammates.
Good things to know
Does “bow out” have an informal or formal tone?
Bow out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or official announcements.
