What are the definitions of “spit it out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1An informal way of telling someone to say something they are unwilling to say.
Hurry up, SPIT IT OUT! I can't wait all day for the truth.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “spit it out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb spit it out is an informal way of telling someone to say something they are unwilling to say or are hesitating to say. It is often used when someone is taking too long to express their thoughts or feelings.
What are the different verb forms of “spit it out”?
| Root Verb | spit it out |
| Third Person Singular Present | spits it out |
| Present Participle | spitting it out |
| Simple Past | spat it out |
| Past Participle | spat it out |
Example
If you have something to say, just spit it out!
Example
She always spits it out when she has a secret to share.
Example
He is spitting it out after hesitating for a while.
Example
Yesterday, he finally spat it out and told us the truth.
Example
She spat it out after we kept asking her what was wrong.
What kind of phrasal verb is “spit 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
“spit 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
Just spit it out already!
Example
She finally spat it out after we kept asking her.
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
“spit 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
Just spit it out already!
Example
She finally spat it out after we kept asking her.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “spit it out”?
Good things to know
Does “spit it out” have an informal or formal tone?
Spit it out is an informal phrasal verb and is not suitable for formal situations. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, especially in casual contexts. In more formal settings, it is better to use alternative phrases such as 'please tell me' or 'could you explain'.
