What are the definitions of “rat out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Inform the authorities about someone.
He RATTED me OUT to the police.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “rat out”?
The phrasal verb rat out is commonly used to describe informing the authorities about someone's actions or wrongdoing.
What are the different verb forms of “rat out”?
| Root Verb | *rat out* |
| Third Person Singular Present | *rats out* |
| Present Participle | *ratting out* |
| Simple Past | *ratted out* |
| Past Participle | *ratted out* |
Example
She wouldn't rat me out even if she knew the truth.
Example
He often rats out his friends when they're in trouble.
Example
They're discussing the consequences of ratting out a fellow student.
Example
Yesterday, he ratted out his coworker for breaking the rules.
Example
The friend had been ratted out and faced the consequences.
What kind of phrasal verb is “rat 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
“rat 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
He ratted me out to the police.
Example
She often rats out her classmates for cheating on exams.
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
“rat 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
He ratted me out to the police.
Example
She often rats out her classmates for cheating on exams.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “rat out”?
To report someone's actions or wrongdoing to the authorities.
Example
He regretted it when his friend ratted him out to the school principal.
Betrayal and trust
To indicate a breach of trust by disclosing confidential information.
Example
She felt betrayed when her close friend ratted her out to others.
Responsibility and consequences
To highlight someone's role in revealing information that led to consequences.
Example
The whole class knew he had ratted out his friend, resulting in disciplinary action.
Good things to know
Does “rat out” have an informal or formal tone?
The phrasal verb rat out is informal and is generally used in casual conversations. However, it's important to consider the context when discussing sensitive matters.
