give out

USAGE SUMMARY

"give out" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used in a variety of ways, such as when one distributes something to a group. For example, "The teacher gave out the test papers to the students."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Give out some HUGS.

University of California, Berkeley

She did not give out".

The New York Times

We give out rewards.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"You ain't give out?

The New Yorker

"They have just give out," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

"Sometimes I give out my number".

The New York Times

"In baseball they give out quarter scholarships.

The New York Times - Sports

They don't give out receipts.

Forbes

37. Give out swag.

Forbes

Give out promo codes.

Forbes

Those machines will start to give out".

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "give out" to mean distribute, ensure the context is clear about what is being distributed (e.g., "give out flyers", "give out information").

Common error

Avoid using "give out" interchangeably with phrasal verbs that have nuanced differences. For instance, "give away" implies offering something for free, while "give out" often suggests a more general distribution or emission.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "give out" primarily functions as a verb indicating distribution, emission, or cessation of function. Ludwig shows that it can be used to describe the act of distributing items (e.g., "give out rewards") or the process of something failing (e.g., "machines will start to give out").

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

36%

News & Media

34%

Academia

4%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "give out" is a versatile expression with multiple meanings, ranging from distributing items to indicating a breakdown or emission. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and widely used. Its frequency and diverse applications across contexts like News & Media and Wiki make it an essential phrase to understand. While generally neutral in register, context is crucial for interpreting its intended meaning. Pay attention to potential confusions with similar phrasal verbs to ensure accurate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hand out

Emphasizes the direct, often informal, transfer of items or information.

distribute

Focuses on the act of spreading or supplying something among a number of recipients.

issue

Highlights the formal or official release of something, such as a statement or document.

announce

Focuses on making something publicly or officially known.

emit

Refers to the release or discharge of something, such as light, sound, or gas.

proclaim

Implies a more formal and emphatic declaration.

fail

Indicates a general inability to function or meet expectations.

collapse

Suggests a sudden failure or breakdown, particularly in health or machinery.

break down

Implies a cessation of function, often due to mechanical or physical stress.

run out

Signifies the exhaustion or depletion of a resource or supply.

FAQs

What does "give out" mean?

"Give out" has several meanings, including to distribute something, to emit something, or to stop functioning.

How to use "give out" in a sentence?

You can use "give out" in a sentence like, "The teacher will "hand out" the tests" or "The old car is about to "break down" and "fail"."

What can I say instead of "give out"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "distribute", "emit", "announce", or "break down".

Is "give out" formal or informal?

"Give out" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the specific meaning. For example, "giving out awards" is more formal than saying your old car is about to "give out".