What are the definitions of “pop out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Go out for a short time.
I'm just POPPING OUT to the shops. Do you need anything while I'm out?
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “pop out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pop out is to go out for a short time, usually to run a quick errand or do a small task. For example, it can mean going to the store, visiting a neighbor, or stepping outside for a moment.
What are the different verb forms of “pop out”?
| Root Verb | pop out |
| Third Person Singular Present | pops out |
| Present Participle | popping out |
| Simple Past | popped out |
| Past Participle | popped out |
Example
I need to pop out and grab some milk from the store.
Example
She pops out to the post office every morning.
Example
He is popping out to buy some snacks for the party.
Example
Yesterday, they popped out to get some fresh air.
Example
She had popped out for a moment when the phone rang.
What kind of phrasal verb is “pop 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
“pop 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 popped out to the store for a few minutes.
Example
He popped out to get some fresh air.
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
“pop 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 popped out to the store for a few minutes.
Example
He popped out to get some fresh air.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “pop out”?
Good things to know
Does “pop out” have an informal or formal tone?
Pop out is an informal phrasal verb that is commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings. Instead, more formal alternatives like 'step out' or 'leave briefly' can be used.
