What are the definitions of “suss out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Come to understand.
It took her ages to SUSS OUT what was going on.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “suss out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb suss out is to figure out, understand, or come to a conclusion about something or someone. It often involves using intuition, observation, or investigation to gain a better understanding of a situation or person.
What are the different verb forms of “suss out”?
| Root Verb | suss out |
| Third Person Singular Present | susses out |
| Present Participle | sussing out |
| Simple Past | sussed out |
| Past Participle | sussed out |
Example
I need to suss out the best way to approach this problem.
Example
She susses out the truth behind the rumors.
Example
He is sussing out the real intentions of his colleagues.
Example
They sussed out the solution to the puzzle quickly.
Example
The detective had sussed out the criminal's plan.
What kind of phrasal verb is “suss 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
“suss 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
She sussed out the hidden meaning behind his words.
Example
He sussed out the best route to avoid traffic.
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
“suss 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
She sussed out the hidden meaning behind his words.
Example
He sussed out the best route to avoid traffic.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “suss out”?
To analyze and understand the strengths and weaknesses of one's competitors.
Example
Before the big game, the coach tried to suss out the competition by watching their previous matches.
Good things to know
Does “suss out” have an informal or formal tone?
Suss out is an informal phrasal verb, commonly used in everyday conversations. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings. In more formal contexts, alternatives such as 'figure out,' 'understand,' or 'determine' may be more appropriate.
