What are the definitions of “reach out for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Try to achieve something difficult.
They are REACHING OUT FOR major economic reforms.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “reach out for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb reach out for is to try to achieve something difficult or challenging. It often implies making an effort to accomplish a goal or overcome an obstacle.
What are the different verb forms of “reach out for”?
| Root Verb | reach out for |
| Third Person Singular Present | reaches out for |
| Present Participle | reaching out for |
| Simple Past | reached out for |
| Past Participle | reached out for |
Example
She always reaches out for her dreams.
Example
He reaches out for success in his career.
Example
They are reaching out for a better future.
Example
Yesterday, she reached out for a promotion at work.
Example
He had reached out for the top position in the company.
What kind of phrasal verb is “reach out for”?
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
“reach out for” 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
She reached out for her goals.
Example
He reached out for a better life.
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
“reach out for” 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
She reached out for her goals.
Example
He reached out for a better life.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “reach out for”?
Good things to know
Does “reach out for” have an informal or formal tone?
Reach out for is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
