What are the definitions of “screen out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Exclude.
Applicants without the right qualifications were SCREENED OUT.
- 2Block light.
The sun cream SCREENS OUT UV light.
- 3Stop noticing something.
There are so many notices and signs that I have started SCREENING them OUT.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “screen out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb screen out is to exclude or filter out something or someone. It is often used when talking about selecting or filtering people or things based on specific criteria.
What are the different verb forms of “screen out”?
| Root Verb | screen out |
| Third Person Singular Present | screens out |
| Present Participle | screening out |
| Simple Past | screened out |
| Past Participle | screened out |
Example
The company screens out unqualified applicants during the hiring process.
Example
The software screens out spam emails automatically.
Example
The filter is screening out impurities from the water.
Example
The teacher screened out the students who didn't meet the requirements.
Example
The unqualified candidates were screened out during the selection process.
What kind of phrasal verb is “screen 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
“screen 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 company screened out unqualified applicants.
Example
The software screens out spam emails.
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
“screen 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 company screened out unqualified applicants.
Example
The software screens out spam emails.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “screen out”?
Screen out* distractions
To ignore or block out distractions, allowing you to concentrate on a task.
Example
She screens out distractions by working in a quiet room with no interruptions.
Good things to know
Does “screen out” have an informal or formal tone?
Screen out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as in business or academic discussions.
