What are the definitions of “head out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Go out.
We're HEADING OUT at seven, so don't be late.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “head out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb head out is to leave a place or start a journey. It is often used when someone is about to go somewhere, either alone or with others.
What are the different verb forms of “head out”?
| Root Verb | head out |
| Third Person Singular Present | heads out |
| Present Participle | heading out |
| Simple Past | headed out |
| Past Participle | headed out |
Example
I need to head out to the store to buy some groceries.
Example
She heads out for work every morning at 8 am.
Example
We are heading out to the party soon, so get ready.
Example
Yesterday, they headed out for a weekend trip.
Example
We had already headed out when she called.
What kind of phrasal verb is “head 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
“head 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 headed out early to avoid traffic.
Example
They headed out for a walk in the park.
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
“head 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 headed out early to avoid traffic.
Example
They headed out for a walk in the park.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “head out”?
Good things to know
Does “head out” have an informal or formal tone?
Head out is a neutral to informal phrasal verb. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and casual contexts. It can also be used in more formal settings, depending on the specific context.
