break out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "break out" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the sudden occurrence of something, such as a conflict, disease, or a situation where someone escapes from confinement. Example: "The tension in the room was palpable, and it felt like a fight could break out at any moment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We don't break out".

The New Yorker

Why did hostilities break out?

The Economist

So break out your pencils.

The New York Times

I'm ready to break out".

The New York Times - Sports

And break out your umbrella.

The New York Times

Break out in hives.

The Guardian

Will peace break out?

The Guardian

Worcester break out!

BBC

Fights break out at rallies.

Los Angeles Times

Arguments break out regularly.

Vice

"Tomorrow, we break out".

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "break out" to describe skin conditions, specify the affected area for clarity (e.g., "break out on the face").

Common error

While "break out" is versatile, avoid using it excessively in formal writing. Opt for more precise synonyms like "erupt", "commence", or "escape" depending on the intended meaning to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "break out" is that of a phrasal verb. It combines the verb "break" with the particle "out" to create a new meaning, indicating escape, sudden emergence, or commencement. Ludwig examples showcase its diverse applications.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "break out" is a versatile and frequently used expression with multiple meanings, including to escape, to start suddenly, or to develop a skin condition. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across diverse contexts. While predominantly found in news and media, "break out" also appears in wiki and business-related content. Remember to select appropriate synonyms like ""erupt"" or "escape" for formal writing and specify the affected area when discussing skin conditions. Be mindful of these nuances to effectively leverage "break out" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

erupt

This alternative captures the sudden and forceful beginning of something, like a conflict or rash.

escape

Implies fleeing or getting free from confinement or a difficult situation.

emerge

Suggests coming into view or becoming apparent, often suddenly.

start suddenly

This phrase emphasizes the unexpected and abrupt beginning of an event or situation.

begin abruptly

Similar to "start suddenly", this highlights the lack of warning or preparation.

occur unexpectedly

Focuses on the surprise element of something happening.

arise suddenly

Implies the quick appearance or development of a situation or problem.

burst forth

Conveys a sense of explosive or forceful emergence.

spring up

Suggests a rapid and often unexpected growth or appearance.

commence suddenly

A more formal way of saying "start suddenly".

FAQs

How can I use "break out" in a sentence?

You can use "break out" to describe escaping from somewhere, like "They "escaped" from prison". Or to describe the sudden start of something, as in "A fight could "erupt" at any moment".

What does it mean when someone says they "break out"?

The meaning of "break out" depends on the context. It can mean to escape, to suddenly develop a skin condition, or to start something new or exciting. The context will provide clues as to the intended meaning.

What can I say instead of "break out"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like ""erupt"", "escape", "emerge", or "start suddenly".

Is it correct to say "break out in hives"?

Yes, it is correct. "Break out in hives" means to suddenly develop hives, which are itchy, raised bumps on the skin. This is a common and accepted usage of the phrase "break out".