What does the phrasal verb “toss out” mean?

What are the definitions of “toss out”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. To mention or suggest something casually or without much thought.

  I just tossed that phrase out to get the discussion going.

• 2. To throw away or get rid of something.

  She’s tossed out the bathroom scales!

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “toss out”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb toss out is to throw away or get rid of something. It can be used when talking about disposing of trash, unwanted items, or anything that is no longer needed.

What are the different verb forms of “toss out”?

Root Verb	toss out
Third Person Singular Present	tosses out
Present Participle	tossing out
Simple Past	tossed out
Past Participle	tossed out

Example

I need to toss out the old magazines.

Example

She tosses out the spoiled food from the fridge.

Example

He is tossing out the broken toys.

Example

Yesterday, they tossed out the worn-out shoes.

Example

The expired medicine was tossed out and replaced with new ones.

What kind of phrasal verb is “toss out”?

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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

“toss out” 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 tossed out the old clothes.

Example

He tossed the trash out of the house.

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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

“toss 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 tossed out the old clothes.

Example

He tossed the trash out of the house.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “toss out”?

Toss out an idea

To suggest or mention an idea casually, without much thought or planning.

Example

She tossed out a few ideas for the project during the meeting.

Toss out a question

To ask a question casually or without expecting a detailed answer.

Example

He tossed out a question about the new policy during the discussion.

Toss out a comment

To make a casual or offhand remark, often without much consideration.

Example

She tossed out a comment about the weather during the conversation.

Good things to know

Does “toss out” have an informal or formal tone?

Toss out is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, it is better to use synonyms like 'discard,' 'dispose of,' or 'throw away' when talking about getting rid of something, and 'suggest' or 'mention' when referring to casually bringing up an idea or question.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “toss out”?

Synonyms

• discard
• eliminate
• suggest
• mention
• propose
• throw away
• dispose of
• get rid of
• bring up

Antonyms

• keep
• retain
• preserve
• maintain
• store
• save
• protect
• hold on to