What does the phrasal verb “branch out” mean?

What are the definitions of “branch out”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Move into a different area of business, etc..

  The supermarkets have BRANCHED OUT into banking.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “branch out”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb branch out is to expand or diversify into new areas, especially in business or other activities. It refers to trying new things or exploring new opportunities.

What are the different verb forms of “branch out”?

Root Verb	branch out
Third Person Singular Present	branches out
Present Participle	branching out
Simple Past	branched out
Past Participle	branched out

Example

The company decided to branch out into new markets.

Example

She branches out into different styles of painting.

Example

The restaurant is branching out by offering a new menu.

Example

Last year, they branched out into online sales.

Example

The business has branched out into several new industries.

What kind of phrasal verb is “branch out”?

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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

“branch 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

The company branched out into new markets.

Example

She branched out and tried new hobbies.

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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

“branch 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

The company branched out into new markets.

Example

She branched out and tried new hobbies.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “branch out”?

Branch out on one's own

To start an independent venture or pursue a new career path, often after leaving a previous job or organization.

Example

After years of working for a large corporation, he decided to branch out on his own and start a small business.

Branch out into new areas

To explore new fields, interests, or activities, often to expand one's knowledge or skills.

Example

She decided to branch out into new areas of study to broaden her horizons.

Branch out from one's comfort zone

To try new things or take risks that are outside of one's usual experiences or preferences.

Example

To grow as a person, it's important to branch out from your comfort zone and challenge yourself.

Good things to know

Does “branch out” have an informal or formal tone?

Branch 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 academic discussions.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “branch out”?

Synonyms

• expand
• diversify
• grow
• develop
• spread
• extend
• widen
• enlarge

Antonyms

• contract
• shrink
• narrow
• limit
• restrict
• reduce
• retrench
• downsize