What does the phrasal verb “break out in” mean?

What are the definitions of “break out in”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Sweat heavily, develop skin sores or irritation..

  The measles caused me to BREAK OUT IN a rash.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb break out in is to suddenly develop a physical reaction on the skin, such as sweating, rashes, or sores. This usually happens as a result of an illness, allergy, or strong emotion.

What are the different verb forms of “break out in”?

Root Verb	break out in
Third Person Singular Present	breaks out in
Present Participle	breaking out in
Simple Past	broke out in
Past Participle	broken out in

Example

When she gets nervous, she breaks out in a cold sweat.

Example

He breaks out in hives whenever he eats strawberries.

Example

She is breaking out in a rash due to an allergic reaction.

Example

Yesterday, he broke out in a fever and had to stay in bed.

Example

She had broken out in a rash after using the new soap.

What kind of phrasal verb is “break out in”?

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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

“break out in” 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

She broke out in a rash after using the new soap.

Example

He broke out in a cold sweat when he heard the news.

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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

“break out in” 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 broke out in a rash after using the new soap.

Example

He broke out in a cold sweat when he heard the news.

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

Break out in song

To suddenly start singing, often in a group or public setting.

Example

The choir broke out in song during the ceremony.

Break out in laughter

To suddenly start laughing, often uncontrollably.

Example

The audience broke out in laughter when the comedian told the joke.

Break out in applause

To suddenly start clapping, often in a group or public setting.

Example

The crowd broke out in applause when the speaker finished their speech.

Good things to know

Does “break out in” have an informal or formal tone?

Break out in is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal situations, depending on the context.

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

Synonyms

• develop
• appear
• experience
• erupt
• suffer from

Antonyms

• disappear
• vanish
• fade
• heal
• clear up