What are the definitions of “cry out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Shout because you are in pain.
He CRIED OUT when he dropped the box on his toes.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “cry out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb cry out is to shout or scream loudly, usually because of pain, fear, or surprise. It is often used to describe a sudden, loud vocal reaction to something unexpected or painful.
What are the different verb forms of “cry out”?
| Root Verb | cry out |
| Third Person Singular Present | cries out |
| Present Participle | crying out |
| Simple Past | cried out |
| Past Participle | cried out |
Example
When she saw the spider, she cried out in fear.
Example
He cries out whenever he gets a cramp in his leg.
Example
She was crying out for help when the lifeguard noticed her.
Example
He cried out in pain when he stubbed his toe.
Example
She had cried out when she saw the snake.
What kind of phrasal verb is “cry 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
“cry 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 baby cried out when she fell.
Example
He cried out in surprise when the door suddenly opened.
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
“cry 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 baby cried out when she fell.
Example
He cried out in surprise when the door suddenly opened.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “cry out”?
Good things to know
Does “cry out” have an informal or formal tone?
Cry out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as news reports or literature, to describe a person's vocal reaction to pain, fear, or surprise.
