What are the definitions of “fill out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Complete a form.
I FILLED OUT the application form and mailed it.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fill out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fill out is to complete a form by providing the required information. This can include filling out paper forms, online forms, or any other document that requires your personal details.
What are the different verb forms of “fill out”?
| Root Verb | fill out |
| Third Person Singular Present | fills out |
| Present Participle | filling out |
| Simple Past | filled out |
| Past Participle | filled out |
Example
Please fill out this form before your appointment.
Example
She fills out the survey carefully.
Example
He is filling out the job application online.
Example
Yesterday, they filled out the registration forms for the conference.
Example
The questionnaire has been filled out and submitted.
What kind of phrasal verb is “fill 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
“fill 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
She filled out the form.
Example
He filled the form out quickly.
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
“fill 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 filled out the form.
Example
He filled the form out quickly.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fill out”?
Fill out an application
To complete an application form for a job, school, or other opportunity.
Example
I filled out an application for the scholarship program.
Good things to know
Does “fill out” have an informal or formal tone?
Fill 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 professional settings when discussing forms, applications, or surveys.
