What are the definitions of “wiggle out of”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Avoid doing something.
I WIGGLED OUT OF having to work late.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “wiggle out of”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb wiggle out of is to avoid doing something, especially a responsibility or task. It often implies using clever or sneaky methods to escape a situation.
What are the different verb forms of “wiggle out of”?
| Root Verb | wiggle out of |
| Third Person Singular Present | wiggles out of |
| Present Participle | wiggling out of |
| Simple Past | wiggled out of |
| Past Participle | wiggled out of |
Example
She always tries to wiggle out of doing the dishes.
Example
He wiggles out of his chores whenever he can.
Example
They are wiggling out of their responsibilities at work.
Example
Yesterday, she wiggled out of going to the meeting.
Example
He had wiggled out of many difficult situations in the past.
What kind of phrasal verb is “wiggle out of”?
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
“wiggle out of” 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 wiggled out of doing the dishes.
Example
He wiggled out of going to the meeting.
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
“wiggle out of” 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 wiggled out of doing the dishes.
Example
He wiggled out of going to the meeting.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “wiggle out of”?
To avoid fulfilling a promise or obligation.
Example
She wiggled out of her commitment to help with the project.
Good things to know
Does “wiggle out of” have an informal or formal tone?
Wiggle out of is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations. It may not be appropriate for formal writing or professional settings. In more formal contexts, consider using synonyms like 'avoid' or 'evade' instead.
