What does the phrasal verb “try out” mean?

What are the definitions of “try out”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Test.

  Scientists are TRYING OUT a new drug in the fight against the disease.

• 2. Test something to see if you like it or want to buy it.

  I TRIED OUT the program before I bought it.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb try out is to test something or use it for a short time to see if it works well or if you like it. This can be applied to various situations, such as testing a new product, trying a new activity, or experimenting with a new idea.

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

Root Verb	try out
Third Person Singular Present	tries out
Present Participle	trying out
Simple Past	tried out
Past Participle	tried out

Example

I want to try out this new recipe I found online.

Example

She tries out new makeup products every month.

Example

He is trying out for the school basketball team.

Example

They tried out the new roller coaster at the amusement park.

Example

The new software has been tried out and approved by the team.

What kind of phrasal verb is “try 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.)

Transitive verb

“try 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

I tried out the new video game.

Example

She tried the new exercise routine out and loved it.

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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

“try 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 tried out the new video game.

Example

She tried the new exercise routine out and loved it.

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

Try out for

To participate in a test or audition to be selected for a team, role, or position.

Example

She tried out for the school play and got the lead role.

Try something out on someone

To test something, such as a joke or idea, on someone to see their reaction.

Example

He tried out his new joke on his friends to see if they would laugh.

Try out a new look

To experiment with a new style, such as clothing, hairstyle, or makeup.

Example

She tried out a new look for the party and received many compliments.

Good things to know

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

Try out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, such as in a business context or when discussing scientific experiments.

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

Synonyms

• test
• experiment
• sample
• examine
• evaluate
• assess
• check
• probe
• investigate

Antonyms

• ignore
• neglect
• overlook
• skip
• disregard
• abandon
• reject
• dismiss