What does the phrasal verb “fathom out” mean?

What are the definitions of “fathom out”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Understand something.

  I couldn't FATHOM OUT what she wanted from me.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fathom out is to understand or comprehend something. It is often used when trying to figure out a complex or confusing situation or idea.

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

Root Verb	fathom out
Third Person Singular Present	fathoms out
Present Participle	fathoming out
Simple Past	fathomed out
Past Participle	fathomed out

Example

I can't fathom out this math problem.

Example

She fathoms out the meaning of the poem.

Example

He is fathoming out the solution to the puzzle.

Example

Yesterday, they fathomed out the secret code.

Example

The mystery has finally been fathomed out by the detective.

What kind of phrasal verb is “fathom 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

“fathom 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

I fathomed out the meaning of the riddle.

Example

She fathomed out the complex instructions.

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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

“fathom 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

I fathomed out the meaning of the riddle.

Example

She fathomed out the complex instructions.

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

Fathom out a mystery

Solve or understand a mysterious or puzzling situation.

Example

The detective was able to fathom out the mystery behind the missing painting.

Fathom out someone's intentions

Understand or figure out what someone is thinking or planning.

Example

I can't fathom out why he would do such a thing.

Fathom out a complex concept

Grasp or comprehend a difficult or abstract idea.

Example

It took me a while to fathom out the principles of quantum mechanics.

Good things to know

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

Fathom out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as academic discussions or professional meetings.

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

Synonyms

• understand
• comprehend
• grasp
• decipher
• unravel
• solve
• figure out
• make sense of

Antonyms

• misunderstand
• confuse
• misinterpret
• muddle
• complicate
• obscure