What does the phrasal verb “be out to” mean?

What are the definitions of “be out to”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Attempt.

  She IS OUT TO get him sacked because she hates him.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb be out to is to attempt or try to achieve something, often with determination or a specific goal in mind. It can be used to describe someone's intentions or objectives.

What are the different verb forms of “be out to”?

Root Verb	be out to
Third Person Singular Present	is out to
Present Participle	being out to
Simple Past	was/were out to
Past Participle	been out to

Example

They are out to win the championship this year.

Example

He is out to prove everyone wrong.

Example

She is being out to make a difference in the community.

Example

They were out to find the best solution for the problem.

Example

He had been out to get a promotion for a long time.

What kind of phrasal verb is “be out to”?

📝

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

“be out to” 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

She is out to make a name for herself.

Example

They were out to have a good time.

📝

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

“be out to” 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 is out to make a name for herself.

Example

They were out to have a good time.

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

Be out to get someone

To have a strong desire to cause harm or trouble to someone, often due to personal dislike or resentment.

Example

He thinks his coworkers are out to get him because they don't like him.

Be out to lunch

To be unaware of what is happening or to be acting in a strange or foolish manner.

Example

She must be out to lunch if she thinks that plan will work.

Be out to prove something

To be determined to demonstrate a point or show that something is true.

Example

He is out to prove that he can succeed without anyone's help.

Good things to know

Does “be out to” have an informal or formal tone?

Be out to is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, depending on the specific context.

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

Synonyms

• attempt
• try
• aim
• strive
• seek
• pursue
• endeavor

Antonyms

• abandon
• ignore
• neglect
• overlook
• disregard
• give up