What are the definitions of “light out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Leave suddenly.
When Zeke found out they were coming for him he LIT OUT for the border.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “light out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb light out is to leave a place suddenly or quickly, often to avoid a problem or danger. For example, it can mean running away from a situation or leaving a place without telling anyone.
What are the different verb forms of “light out”?
| Root Verb | light out |
| Third Person Singular Present | lights out |
| Present Participle | lighting out |
| Simple Past | lit out |
| Past Participle | lit out |
Example
As soon as he heard the sirens, he decided to light out.
Example
She lights out whenever she feels uncomfortable at a party.
Example
He is lighting out for the countryside to escape the city noise.
Example
Yesterday, they lit out as soon as they saw the police approaching.
Example
He had lit out before anyone could stop him.
What kind of phrasal verb is “light 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
“light 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
When the alarm went off, everyone lit out.
Example
She lit out as soon as she saw her ex-boyfriend.
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
“light 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
When the alarm went off, everyone lit out.
Example
She lit out as soon as she saw her ex-boyfriend.
Good things to know
Does “light out” have an informal or formal tone?
Light out is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations or informal writing. It is not commonly used in formal settings or professional communication. Instead, more formal synonyms like 'depart' or 'leave' can be used.
