What are the definitions of “phase out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Remove gradually.
They have introduced a compact edition of the newspaper and are PHASING OUT the broadsheet edition over the next few months.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “phase out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb phase out is to gradually remove or stop using something, often over a period of time. This can refer to products, services, or practices that are being replaced or discontinued.
What are the different verb forms of “phase out”?
| Root Verb | phase out |
| Third Person Singular Present | phases out |
| Present Participle | phasing out |
| Simple Past | phased out |
| Past Participle | phased out |
Example
The company plans to phase out the old software by the end of the year.
Example
She phases out outdated products from her store every season.
Example
The government is phasing out the use of plastic bags in supermarkets.
Example
They phased out the old model when the new one was released.
Example
The old system has been phased out and replaced with a more efficient one.
What kind of phrasal verb is “phase 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
“phase 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
The company phased out the old software.
Example
The government phased out the use of plastic bags.
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
“phase 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
The company phased out the old software.
Example
The government phased out the use of plastic bags.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “phase out”?
Good things to know
Does “phase out” have an informal or formal tone?
Phase 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 more formal settings, such as business meetings or official announcements.
