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 Verb | mete out |
| Third Person Singular Present | metes out |
| Present Participle | meting out |
| Simple Past | meted out |
| Past Participle | meted 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”?
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.
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 enforce discipline or maintain order, often through punishment or strict measures.
Example
The coach meted out discipline to ensure the team's success.
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.
