What are the definitions of “want out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Want to leave a relationship or arrangement.
Jackie wasn't happy with her marriage and WANTED OUT.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “want out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb want out is to desire to leave a relationship, situation, or arrangement. It often implies that the person is unhappy or dissatisfied with the current situation and wants to end their involvement. For example, it can be used when someone wants to leave a job, a relationship, or a group.
What are the different verb forms of “want out”?
| Root Verb | want out |
| Third Person Singular Present | wants out |
| Present Participle | wanting out |
| Simple Past | wanted out |
| Past Participle | wanted out |
Example
She wants out of the toxic work environment.
Example
He wants out of the relationship because he feels unhappy.
Example
They are wanting out of the business partnership due to disagreements.
Example
Last year, she wanted out of the contract, but she couldn't break it.
Example
He had wanted out of the team for a long time before he finally quit.
What kind of phrasal verb is “want 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
“want 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
She wanted out of the relationship.
Example
He wanted out of the job.
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
“want 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 wanted out of the relationship.
Example
He wanted out of the job.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “want out”?
Good things to know
Does “want out” have an informal or formal tone?
Want out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, depending on the specific context. For instance, when discussing legal matters, such as wanting out of a contract, it can have a more formal tone.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “want out”?
Synonyms
- desire to leave
- wish to exit
- seek to quit
- aim to depart
- hope to end
Antonyms
- want in
- desire to join
- wish to enter
- seek to participate
- aim to engage
