What does the phrasal verb “mete out” mean?

What are the definitions of “mete out”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

  • 1Give people harsh punishments or treatment.

    They METED OUT savage penalties to anyone who broke the law.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb mete out is to give harsh punishments or treatment to someone, often in a strict or severe manner. It is usually used when talking about justice or discipline.

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

Root Verbmete out
Third Person Singular Presentmetes out
Present Participlemeting out
Simple Pastmeted out
Past Participlemeted out

Example

The judge decided to mete out a severe punishment for the crime.

Example

The strict teacher metes out detentions for even minor infractions.

Example

The government is meting out harsh penalties for tax evasion.

Example

The court meted out a long prison sentence for the offender.

Example

Justice was served when the punishment was meted out to the criminal.

What kind of phrasal verb is “mete 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

“mete 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

The principal meted out a suspension to the student.

Example

The authorities meted out fines to those who violated the rules.

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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

“mete 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 principal meted out a suspension to the student.

Example

The authorities meted out fines to those who violated the rules.

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

To administer or deliver justice, often in the form of punishment or retribution.

Example

The court's role is to mete out justice fairly and impartially.

To enforce discipline or maintain order, often through punishment or strict measures.

Example

The coach meted out discipline to ensure the team's success.

Mete out consequences

To impose consequences or repercussions for actions or behavior.

Example

Parents must mete out consequences to teach their children responsibility.

Good things to know

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

Mete out is a formal phrasal verb often used in legal, academic, or professional contexts. It is not commonly used in casual conversations. In informal settings, alternative expressions like 'give out' or 'hand out' can be used.

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

Synonyms

Antonyms

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