What are the definitions of “hit out at”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Respond angrily to criticism.
The government HIT OUT AT the media for their negativity.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “hit out at”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb hit out at is to respond angrily or criticize someone or something, usually as a reaction to criticism or negative comments. It is often used when someone is defending themselves or their actions.
What are the different verb forms of “hit out at”?
| Root Verb | hit out at |
| Third Person Singular Present | hits out at |
| Present Participle | hitting out at |
| Simple Past | hit out at |
| Past Participle | hit out at |
Example
The politician hit out at the reporter for asking a controversial question.
Example
She hits out at anyone who questions her decisions.
Example
He is hitting out at the critics who doubted his abilities.
Example
The celebrity hit out at the tabloid for spreading false rumors.
Example
The company hit out at the negative reviews, claiming they were unfounded.
What kind of phrasal verb is “hit out at”?
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
“hit out at” 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 athlete hit out at the negative comments about his performance.
Example
The director hit out at the critics who panned her movie.
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
“hit out at” 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 athlete hit out at the negative comments about his performance.
Example
The director hit out at the critics who panned her movie.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “hit out at”?
Good things to know
Does “hit out at” have an informal or formal tone?
Hit out at is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in everyday speech, especially in casual contexts. In more formal settings, it is better to use synonyms like 'criticize,' 'respond to,' or 'defend against.'
