What are the definitions of “ferret out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Search and discover something.
The investigation finally managed to FERRET OUT the truth.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “ferret out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb ferret out is to search for and discover something, often hidden or difficult to find. It is often used when talking about finding information or uncovering secrets.
What are the different verb forms of “ferret out”?
| Root Verb | ferret out |
| Third Person Singular Present | ferrets out |
| Present Participle | ferreting out |
| Simple Past | ferreted out |
| Past Participle | ferreted out |
Example
The detective managed to ferret out the hidden evidence.
Example
She ferrets out the best deals when shopping for clothes.
Example
The journalist is ferreting out the truth behind the scandal.
Example
The team ferreted out the opponent's strategy during the game.
Example
The hidden treasure was finally ferreted out by the adventurers.
What kind of phrasal verb is “ferret 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
“ferret 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 investigator ferreted out the truth.
Example
She ferreted out the best prices for her customers.
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
“ferret 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 investigator ferreted out the truth.
Example
She ferreted out the best prices for her customers.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “ferret out”?
To search for and discover information, especially when it is hidden or not easily accessible.
Example
The reporter was determined to ferret out information about the company's unethical practices.
Good things to know
Does “ferret out” have an informal or formal tone?
Ferret 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 writing or discussions, depending on the specific context.
