What are the definitions of “drop out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Quit a course.
She DROPPED OUT of college and went straight into a good job.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “drop out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb drop out is to quit or stop participating in something, such as a course, school, or activity. For example, it can mean leaving school before completing your education or quitting a competition before it ends.
What are the different verb forms of “drop out”?
| Root Verb | drop out |
| Third Person Singular Present | drops out |
| Present Participle | dropping out |
| Simple Past | dropped out |
| Past Participle | dropped out |
Example
He decided to drop out of the race due to an injury.
Example
She drops out of the club because she is too busy.
Example
He is dropping out of the competition because he is not prepared.
Example
She dropped out of college and went straight into a good job.
Example
He had dropped out of high school but later earned his diploma.
What kind of phrasal verb is “drop 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
“drop 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 dropped out of college.
Example
He dropped out of the race.
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
“drop 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 dropped out of college.
Example
He dropped out of the race.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “drop out”?
A person who has quit or stopped participating in something, such as school or a competition.
Example
He was a high school dropout but later became a successful entrepreneur.
Good things to know
Does “drop out” have an informal or formal tone?
Drop 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 academic or professional discussions.
