What are the definitions of “cop out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Choose an easy alternative.
She was going to take a Master's degree but COPPED OUT and chose the Diploma course instead.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “cop out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb cop out is to avoid doing something difficult or challenging by choosing an easier alternative. It often implies that someone is not willing to face a challenge or take responsibility for their actions.
What are the different verb forms of “cop out”?
| Root Verb | cop out |
| Third Person Singular Present | cops out |
| Present Participle | copping out |
| Simple Past | copped out |
| Past Participle | copped out |
Example
He didn't want to face his fears, so he copped out and stayed home.
Example
She always cops out when it comes to making difficult decisions.
Example
He is copping out of the difficult task by asking someone else to do it.
Example
They copped out of the competition because they were afraid of losing.
Example
He had copped out of many challenges in his life.
What kind of phrasal verb is “cop 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
“cop 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
She copped out and chose the easier course.
Example
He copped out of the difficult conversation.
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
“cop 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 copped out and chose the easier course.
Example
He copped out of the difficult conversation.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “cop out”?
Cop-out
A noun referring to an excuse or an easy way out of a difficult situation.
Example
Using a headache as an excuse not to go to the party was a total cop-out.
Good things to know
Does “cop out” have an informal or formal tone?
Cop out is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings. Instead, more formal alternatives like 'avoid' or 'evade' can be used.
