What are the definitions of “leak out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Become public knowledge.
The company's plans to close the factory LEAKED OUT and they were very embarrassed.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “leak out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb leak out is to become public knowledge, usually referring to information that was meant to be kept secret or confidential. This can happen through various means, such as unauthorized sharing, accidental disclosure, or intentional exposure.
What are the different verb forms of “leak out”?
| Root Verb | leak out |
| Third Person Singular Present | leaks out |
| Present Participle | leaking out |
| Simple Past | leaked out |
| Past Participle | leaked out |
Example
The news about the celebrity's divorce leaked out quickly.
Example
Sensitive information often leaks out from government agencies.
Example
The details of the meeting are leaking out slowly.
Example
The secret project leaked out before its official announcement.
Example
The confidential report had leaked out to the press.
What kind of phrasal verb is “leak 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
“leak 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
The news about the scandal leaked out quickly.
Example
The secret plans leaked out before the company could announce them.
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
“leak 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
The news about the scandal leaked out quickly.
Example
The secret plans leaked out before the company could announce them.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “leak out”?
To intentionally or unintentionally disclose confidential or secret information.
Example
The employee was fired for leaking out sensitive company data.
Good things to know
Does “leak out” have an informal or formal tone?
Leak out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in news reporting, business, and political discussions. In more formal settings, it may be replaced with synonyms such as 'disclose' or 'reveal'.
