What are the definitions of “root out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Look for and find.
The police ROOTED OUT the informer.
- 2Find the source of a problem and remove it.
They are trying to ROOT OUT the troublemakers.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “root out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb root out is to search for and find something or someone, often with the intention of removing them. It can be used to describe finding the source of a problem and eliminating it, or locating a hidden person or object.
What are the different verb forms of “root out”?
| Root Verb | root out |
| Third Person Singular Present | roots out |
| Present Participle | rooting out |
| Simple Past | rooted out |
| Past Participle | rooted out |
Example
The detective was determined to root out the truth.
Example
She roots out the best deals when shopping.
Example
The team is rooting out the cause of the issue.
Example
They rooted out the mole in the organization.
Example
The problem has been rooted out and resolved.
What kind of phrasal verb is “root 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
“root 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 investigator rooted out the hidden evidence.
Example
The manager rooted out the employees who were causing problems.
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
“root 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 investigator rooted out the hidden evidence.
Example
The manager rooted out the employees who were causing problems.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “root out”?
To find and eliminate dishonest or fraudulent behavior in an organization or system.
Example
The new government promised to root out corruption in the public sector.
To find and eliminate unfair treatment or prejudice based on race, gender, age, or other factors.
Example
The organization is committed to rooting out discrimination in the workplace.
Good things to know
Does “root out” have an informal or formal tone?
Root out 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, academic discussions, or legal proceedings.
