What are the definitions of “snuff out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Extinguish a small flame by covering it.
I SNUFFED OUT the candles before I went to bed.
- 2Kill.
He got SNUFFED OUT in a gang war.
- 3End something suddenly.
I messed up the first question, which SNUFFED OUT my chances of getting a good grade.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “snuff out”?
The phrasal verb snuff out has multiple meanings depending on the context.
What are the different verb forms of “snuff out”?
| Root Verb | *snuff out* |
| Third Person Singular Present | *snuffs out* |
| Present Participle | *snuffing out* |
| Simple Past | *snuffed out* |
| Past Participle | *snuffed out* |
Example
I always make sure to snuff out the candles before going to bed.
Example
He usually snuffs out any small flames around the house.
Example
They're discussing the best ways of snuffing out a fire safely.
Example
Last night, I accidentally snuffed out one of the candles.
Example
The spark had been snuffed out by the strong wind.
What kind of phrasal verb is “snuff 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
“snuff 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
I snuffed out the candles before going to bed.
Example
He accidentally snuffed out the small flame with his fingers.
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
“snuff 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 snuffed out the candles before going to bed.
Example
He accidentally snuffed out the small flame with his fingers.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “snuff out”?
To describe the act of putting out a small fire or flame, typically by covering it.
Example
Before going to bed, I always make sure to snuff out the candles.
Kill
To refer to the act of ending someone's life, usually in a violent manner.
Example
He tragically got snuffed out in a gang war.
Good things to know
Does “snuff out” have an informal or formal tone?
The phrasal verb snuff out is commonly used in informal conversations and writing. Its usage may be appropriate in various contexts, but consideration should be given to the specific meaning and tone of the conversation.
