before going out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "before going out" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate an action or condition that should occur prior to leaving a place. Example: "Make sure to check the weather before going out to avoid getting caught in the rain."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Over half the sample in this study had drunk alcohol at a private residence before going out [6].

International Journal of Emergency Medicine

Always ask your parents permission before going out and buying something.

WikiHow

Make plans before going out about how you're getting home.

Columbia University

Just before going out, the wrestlers planned their matches.

The New York Times

These skills must be learned before going out on the river.

Princeton University

<< Learn about corporate and securities law research before going out to that job this summer!

Harvard University

An eight requires one or two corrections before going out to a guest.

The New Yorker

Ruben: There was a gathering for drinks in Manhattan before going out to a club.

The New York Times

(Panahi's son turned it on before going out with his mother).

The New Yorker

Mahut won despite losing his favourite racket in the locker room before going out on court.

Independent

The view was "perfect for us to enjoy the morning before going out," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "before going out", ensure the context clearly indicates the location from which someone is departing. For example, "Check the weather forecast before going out so you can dress appropriately."

Common error

Avoid using "before going out" when the location is ambiguous. Instead, specify the location, such as "before going out to the park" or "before going out of the house."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "before going out" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating the timing of an action in relation to leaving a specific location. Ludwig AI confirms this through numerous examples where it precedes instructions, preparations, or considerations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

50%

News & Media

24%

Science

14%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "before going out" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to denote actions or preparations made prior to leaving a place. Ludwig AI confirms its wide usage across diverse contexts, including wikis, news articles, scientific papers, and academic texts. While generally neutral in register, it can be adapted to more formal settings by using alternatives like "prior to departure". Key considerations include ensuring the context clearly indicates the departure location and avoiding ambiguity. By understanding its function, purpose, and appropriate usage, writers can effectively incorporate "before going out" into their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

prior to heading out

Similar to "before going out", but uses "heading out" as a synonym.

before stepping out

This is a more casual alternative, specifically referring to leaving a building.

before setting off

Implies the beginning of a journey or trip.

prior to departure

This is a more formal way of saying "before going out", focusing on the act of leaving.

before venturing out

Suggests a more adventurous or uncertain departure.

ahead of leaving

This phrase emphasizes the timing of actions relative to the departure.

in advance of departing

A formal alternative, emphasizing the timing of actions before departure.

in preparation for leaving

This highlights the preparatory aspect of actions done before leaving.

on the eve of departure

Highlights the day or period immediately before leaving.

preparatory to leaving

A very formal and less common way of saying "before leaving".

FAQs

How can I rephrase "before going out" to sound more formal?

Consider using phrases like "prior to departure" or "in advance of leaving" for a more formal tone.

What's a more casual alternative to "before going out"?

For a more casual tone, you could say "before stepping out" or "before heading out".

Is it always necessary to specify a location with "before going out"?

While not always required, specifying the location clarifies the context. For instance, saying "before going out to the store" is more precise than simply "before going out".

Can "before going out" be used in both literal and figurative contexts?

Yes, it can. Literally, it refers to physically leaving a place. Figuratively, it can mean preparing for an activity, as in "before venturing out into a new project, make sure you have a solid plan".