What does the phrasal verb “close out” mean?

What are the definitions of “close out”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Bring something to an end.

  We CLOSED OUT the meeting early and went home.

• 2. Close or stop using.

  She CLOSED OUT the account and changed to another bank.

• 3. Ignore, exclude.

  They always CLOSE me OUT of their plans.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb close out is to bring something to an end or finish it. This can refer to ending a meeting, completing a task, or finishing a project.

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

Root Verb	close out
Third Person Singular Present	closes out
Present Participle	closing out
Simple Past	closed out
Past Participle	closed out

Example

We need to close out this project by the end of the month.

Example

She closes out her workday by organizing her desk.

Example

They are closing out the conference with a keynote speaker.

Example

He closed out the presentation with a summary of the main points.

Example

The event was closed out with a farewell party.

What kind of phrasal verb is “close 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.)

Transitive verb

“close 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 closed out the meeting with a final announcement.

Example

He closed the account out after finding a better bank.

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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

“close 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 closed out the meeting with a final announcement.

Example

He closed the account out after finding a better bank.

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

Close out a sale

To finish or end a sale, often by selling the remaining items at a discount.

Example

The store is closing out the summer sale with a 50% discount on all items.

Close out a game

To finish or win a game, often in sports.

Example

The basketball team closed out the game with a last-minute three-pointer.

Close out a position

To sell or liquidate an investment, such as stocks or bonds.

Example

The investor closed out his position in the company after the stock price dropped.

Good things to know

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

Close out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in professional and business contexts.

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

Synonyms

• end
• complete
• finalize
• conclude
• finish
• terminate
• wrap up
• shut down

Antonyms

• begin
• start
• open
• initiate
• launch
• commence
• introduce