What are the definitions of “slug it out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Fight or argue.
They SLUGGED IT OUT for hours but never came to an agreement.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “slug it out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb slug it out is to fight or argue intensely, often for a long time. It can be used to describe physical fights or verbal arguments.
What are the different verb forms of “slug it out”?
| Root Verb | slug it out |
| Third Person Singular Present | slugs it out |
| Present Participle | slugging it out |
| Simple Past | slugged it out |
| Past Participle | slugged it out |
Example
The two politicians slugged it out during the debate.
Example
He slugs it out with his brother over every little thing.
Example
The two teams are slugging it out for the championship title.
Example
They slugged it out for hours but never came to an agreement.
Example
The rivals had slugged it out many times before.
What kind of phrasal verb is “slug it 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
“slug it 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 two boxers slugged it out in the ring.
Example
The neighbors slugged it out over the property line.
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
“slug it 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 two boxers slugged it out in the ring.
Example
The neighbors slugged it out over the property line.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “slug it out”?
Good things to know
Does “slug it out” have an informal or formal tone?
Slug it out is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations or informal writing. It may not be appropriate for formal settings or academic writing.
