What are the definitions of “sally out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Leave somewhere safe or comfortable.
Though it was pouring with rain, we SALLIED OUT to meet her.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “sally out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sally out is to leave a safe or comfortable place, usually to face a challenging or difficult situation. It often implies courage or determination.
What are the different verb forms of “sally out”?
| Root Verb | sally out |
| Third Person Singular Present | sallies out |
| Present Participle | sallying out |
| Simple Past | sallied out |
| Past Participle | sallied out |
Example
Despite the storm, they decided to sally out and search for help.
Example
Every morning, she sallies out for a run, no matter the weather.
Example
They are sallying out to face the challenges ahead.
Example
He sallied out into the unknown, determined to succeed.
Example
The brave adventurers had sallied out to explore the uncharted territory.
What kind of phrasal verb is “sally 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
“sally 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
The soldiers sallied out to face the enemy.
Example
Despite the risks, they sallied out to complete the mission.
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
“sally 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 soldiers sallied out to face the enemy.
Example
Despite the risks, they sallied out to complete the mission.
Good things to know
Does “sally out” have an informal or formal tone?
Sally out is a somewhat formal and old-fashioned phrasal verb. It is more commonly used in literary contexts or historical narratives. In everyday conversations, people might use more common alternatives like 'venture out' or 'set out'.
