What are the definitions of “sit out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Not take part.
I had to SIT the game OUT because I was ill.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “sit out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sit out is to not participate in an activity or event, usually due to a specific reason such as illness or personal choice.
What are the different verb forms of “sit out”?
| Root Verb | sit out |
| Third Person Singular Present | sits out |
| Present Participle | sitting out |
| Simple Past | sat out |
| Past Participle | sat out |
Example
She decided to sit out the dance because she was tired.
Example
He sits out the meeting due to a scheduling conflict.
Example
They are sitting out this round of the game to take a break.
Example
Yesterday, she sat out the basketball game because of her injury.
Example
He had sat out the entire season due to his health.
What kind of phrasal verb is “sit 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
“sit 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
I decided to sit out the party.
Example
She sat out the game because she was not feeling well.
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
“sit 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
I decided to sit out the party.
Example
She sat out the game because she was not feeling well.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “sit out”?
Good things to know
Does “sit out” have an informal or formal tone?
Sit 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, depending on the specific context.
