What does the phrasal verb “strike out” mean?

What are the definitions of “strike out”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Start doing something new and different.

  After doing the same job for five years, I decided to STRIKE OUT and change careers.

• 2. Try to hit someone.

  When he pushed me, I STRUCK OUT.

• 3. Start going towards a place.

  We got up early and STRUCK OUT for our final destination.

• 4. Cross writing out.

  As they arrived, I STRUCK their names OUT on the list I had.

• 5. Fail.

  I tried to get the government to support us but I STRUCK OUT.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “strike out”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb strike out is to start doing something new and different, often in a bold or adventurous way. It can refer to changing careers, starting a new project, or embarking on a new adventure.

What are the different verb forms of “strike out”?

Root Verb	strike out
Third Person Singular Present	strikes out
Present Participle	striking out
Simple Past	struck out
Past Participle	struck out

Example

She decided to strike out on her own and start a new business.

Example

He strikes out for a new adventure every summer.

Example

They are striking out into unknown territory with their new project.

Example

Last year, she struck out and moved to a new city.

Example

He had struck out on his own before, but this time was different.

What kind of phrasal verb is “strike out”?

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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

“strike 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

After years of working for others, she decided to strike out on her own.

Example

He struck out for a new adventure in a foreign country.

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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

“strike 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

After years of working for others, she decided to strike out on her own.

Example

He struck out for a new adventure in a foreign country.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “strike out”?

Strike out at someone

To physically or verbally attack someone.

Example

He struck out at his opponent during the heated debate.

Strike out in a direction

To start moving or traveling in a specific direction.

Example

They struck out in the direction of the mountains, hoping to find the lost treasure.

Strike someone's name out

To cross out or remove someone's name from a list.

Example

When she confirmed her attendance, I struck her name out from the list of invitees.

Good things to know

Does “strike out” have an informal or formal tone?

Strike out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, depending on the specific context.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “strike out”?

Synonyms

• embark
• venture
• begin
• launch
• initiate
• start
• commence
• set out
• cross out
• erase

Antonyms

• stay
• remain
• continue
• persist
• maintain
• keep
• uphold
• retain
• preserve
• conserve