What are the definitions of “edge out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Gradually push someone or something out of their position.
The shareholders EDGED the CEO out because results were getting worse.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “edge out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb edge out is to gradually push someone or something out of their position or role. This can happen in various situations, such as in a competition, a job, or a market.
What are the different verb forms of “edge out”?
| Root Verb | edge out |
| Third Person Singular Present | edges out |
| Present Participle | edging out |
| Simple Past | edged out |
| Past Participle | edged out |
Example
The new company edged out the old one in the market.
Example
She edges out her competitors with her innovative ideas.
Example
The new technology is edging out the old one.
Example
He edged out his rival for the promotion.
Example
The experienced player was edged out by the young talent.
What kind of phrasal verb is “edge 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
“edge 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 new software edged out the old one.
Example
The young athlete edged the veteran out of the competition.
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
“edge 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 new software edged out the old one.
Example
The young athlete edged the veteran out of the competition.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “edge out”?
To surpass a competitor, often by a small margin.
Example
She edged out her rival in the race by just a few seconds.
Good things to know
Does “edge out” have an informal or formal tone?
Edge 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 business discussions or news articles.
