What are the definitions of “flake out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Fall asleep from exhaustion.
I worked till midnight then FLAKED OUT.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “flake out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb flake out is to fall asleep from exhaustion or tiredness. It often happens when someone is very tired after a long day or hard work.
What are the different verb forms of “flake out”?
| Root Verb | flake out |
| Third Person Singular Present | flakes out |
| Present Participle | flaking out |
| Simple Past | flaked out |
| Past Participle | flaked out |
Example
After the long hike, I just wanted to flake out on the couch.
Example
She often flakes out after a long day at work.
Example
He is flaking out on the sofa after the marathon.
Example
We flaked out as soon as we got home from the trip.
Example
They had flaked out after the exhausting workout.
What kind of phrasal verb is “flake 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
“flake 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
I flaked out after the long day.
Example
She flaked out on the bed.
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
“flake 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 flaked out after the long day.
Example
She flaked out on the bed.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “flake out”?
Good things to know
Does “flake out” have an informal or formal tone?
Flake out is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal settings or writing. Instead, more formal alternatives like 'fall asleep' or 'collapse from exhaustion' can be used.