What are the definitions of “step out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Leave a place for a very short time.
They've STEPPED OUT for a cigarette.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “step out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb step out is to leave a place for a very short time. It is often used when someone goes outside for a brief moment, such as to get some fresh air or take a break.
What are the different verb forms of “step out”?
| Root Verb | step out |
| Third Person Singular Present | steps out |
| Present Participle | stepping out |
| Simple Past | stepped out |
| Past Participle | stepped out |
Example
I need to step out for a minute to make a phone call.
Example
She steps out every afternoon to grab a coffee.
Example
He is stepping out to buy some snacks for the party.
Example
Yesterday, they stepped out for a quick walk during lunch break.
Example
She had stepped out to pick up a package when the phone rang.
What kind of phrasal verb is “step 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
“step 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 stepped out for a moment to get some fresh air.
Example
He stepped out to buy a newspaper.
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
“step 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 stepped out for a moment to get some fresh air.
Example
He stepped out to buy a newspaper.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “step out”?
Good things to know
Does “step out” have an informal or formal tone?
Step out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, depending on the context.
