What are the definitions of “trot out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Make a statement ( meant negatively ).
The spokeswoman TROTTED OUT the same old unconvincing excuses.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “trot out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb trot out is to present or repeat an idea, statement, or excuse that has been used many times before, often in a negative or unconvincing way.
What are the different verb forms of “trot out”?
| Root Verb | trot out |
| Third Person Singular Present | trots out |
| Present Participle | trotting out |
| Simple Past | trotted out |
| Past Participle | trotted out |
Example
The politician always trots out the same promises during election campaigns.
Example
She trots out the same old story every time she's late.
Example
He is trotting out the same excuses for not doing his homework.
Example
They trotted out the same arguments during the debate.
Example
The same reasons have been trotted out for years.
What kind of phrasal verb is “trot 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
“trot 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
He trotted out the same old excuses.
Example
She trotted the same story out again.
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
“trot 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
He trotted out the same old excuses.
Example
She trotted the same story out again.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “trot out”?
Trot out a cliché
To use a cliché or overused expression in a conversation or writing.
Example
The author trotted out a cliché in the opening paragraph of the novel.
Good things to know
Does “trot out” have an informal or formal tone?
Trot out is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations or informal writing. In more formal settings, it is better to use synonyms such as 'repeat,' 'present,' or 'recite.'
