What are the definitions of “carry out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Perform a task.
The government is CARRYING OUT test on growing genetically modified crops.
- 2Food bought from a restaurant to take away.
I'm too tired to cook- let's get a CARRY OUT.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “carry out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb carry out is to perform or complete a task or action. It is often used when talking about doing a job, conducting an experiment, or fulfilling a responsibility.
What are the different verb forms of “carry out”?
| Root Verb | carry out |
| Third Person Singular Present | carries out |
| Present Participle | carrying out |
| Simple Past | carried out |
| Past Participle | carried out |
Example
They plan to carry out the experiment next week.
Example
She carries out her duties with great care.
Example
The team is carrying out a survey to gather data.
Example
He carried out the instructions as directed.
Example
The plan was carried out successfully.
What kind of phrasal verb is “carry 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
“carry 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
The scientist carried out the experiment.
Example
They carried out the plan without any problems.
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
“carry 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 scientist carried out the experiment.
Example
They carried out the plan without any problems.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “carry out”?
Good things to know
Does “carry out” have an informal or formal tone?
Carry out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate for use in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as academic or professional environments.
