What are the definitions of “spread out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Extend or arrange over a surface or area.
He spread out his toes in the soft sand and wiggled them.
- 2To extend or arrange in a wider or more open position.
Spread out the map so we can all see it.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “spread out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb spread out is to extend or arrange something over a surface or area. It can be used to describe the action of making something cover a larger area or making something more open and less crowded.
What are the different verb forms of “spread out”?
| Root Verb | spread out |
| Third Person Singular Present | spreads out |
| Present Participle | spreading out |
| Simple Past | spread out |
| Past Participle | spread out |
Example
Please spread out the blanket on the grass.
Example
She spreads out her notes on the table to study.
Example
The children are spreading out their toys on the floor.
Example
Yesterday, they spread out the documents for review.
Example
The papers were spread out on the desk.
What kind of phrasal verb is “spread 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
“spread 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
He spread out the map on the table.
Example
She spread the blanket out on the grass.
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
“spread 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
He spread out the map on the table.
Example
She spread the blanket out on the grass.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “spread out”?
Good things to know
Does “spread out” have an informal or formal tone?
Spread out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, such as in written documents or presentations.
