student asking question

What's "bail out" mean? Can it be used in other contexts?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Here, "bailout" means to rescue or help someone from a difficult situation. More specifically, in this case, it would be a financial "bailout." And yes, "bailout" can be used in other contexts! It can mean to no longer commit to something, to be free of an obligation, or to scoop water out of a boat or ship. Ex: Jerry bailed out of the swimming competition yesterday. Ex: I need to bail out my daughter from detention. Ex: They bailed out the boat and then continued fishing.

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