What does “To eat out” mean?
The phrase "to eat out" means to dine in a restaurant. When someone says they're going to "eat out", it implies that they will be eating their meal at a restaurant instead of preparing it at home.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
Let's eat out tonight, I don't feel like cooking.
Example
I love eating out because I don't have to do the dishes.
Example
We should eat out more often, it's a nice treat.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Planning to dine in a restaurant
Let's eat out tonight, I don't feel like cooking.
We should eat out more often, it's a nice treat.
- 2Expressing enjoyment of dining in a restaurant
I love eating out because I don't have to do the dishes.
Eating out is a great way to try new cuisines and restaurants.
- 3Discussing the frequency of dining in restaurants
We used to eat out every weekend, but now we prefer cooking at home.
I rarely eat out during the week, but I enjoy it on special occasions.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
The phrase "to eat out" is a straightforward expression that originated in English. It is a simple combination of the words 'eat' and 'out' to indicate dining outside of one's home.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
The phrase "to eat out" is typically used within a sentence and is not commonly used on its own.
Is the phrase offensive?
The phrase "to eat out" is not offensive. It is a common verb phrase used to describe eating in a restaurant.
Audience for the phrase
The phrase "to eat out" is commonly used by people of all ages and backgrounds. It is a widely understood expression in English-speaking countries.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
The phrase "to eat out" is not specific to any particular accent or region. It is used across English-speaking regions and is understood by speakers of different dialects.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- dine out
- have a meal outside
- go to a restaurant
- eat at a dining establishment
- enjoy a meal out
Antonyms
- eat at home
- cook at home
- prepare a meal at home
- have a home-cooked meal
- eat in
