hiding out

USAGE SUMMARY

"hiding out" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that someone is avoiding someone or something by keeping out of sight. For example: "The witness has been hiding out at his sister's house since he testified in court."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

They were hiding out".

The New York Times

Hiding out in Suriname.

The New York Times

"Birgeneau and Breslauer are hiding out and missing in action.

The New Yorker

Hiding out, in other words, means cutting back.

The New York Times

"They don't know you, so they're hiding out".

The New York Times - Magazine

At the time, he was hiding out with Ezzadin Hinshiri, who was also on Dornstein's list.

The New Yorker

Don't believe it," said Ibrahim, the Iraqi who is now hiding out in Cairo.

The New Yorker

On their official website, Sampdoria described him as "a new Rambo, hiding out amongst the branches".

The Guardian - Sport

Kobayashi gave broadcasts telling his countrymen who were hiding out to surrender themselves.

The New Yorker

"I'm going to go get him, where he's hiding out," Mr. Blé Goudé said.

The New York Times

Mr. Assange himself understands the complications of hiding out from possible criminal prosecution.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "hiding out" to describe a temporary situation where someone is avoiding being seen or found, often due to fear, legal issues, or personal reasons.

Common error

Avoid using "hiding out" when describing a permanent lifestyle change. The phrase implies a temporary state of avoidance rather than a long-term relocation or identity change.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "hiding out" functions as a verb phrase, specifically a phrasal verb, indicating the action of concealing oneself, often to avoid detection or confrontation. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is correct and applicable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

24%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrasal verb "hiding out" is a common and accepted way to describe someone temporarily concealing themselves to avoid detection or trouble. As Ludwig AI confirms, its usage is grammatically correct and versatile, appearing in diverse contexts from news reports to informal discussions. While it implies a temporary state, understanding its nuance allows for precise communication, ensuring you convey the intended meaning of temporary concealment rather than a permanent lifestyle change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

going into hiding

Implies a deliberate act of self-removal to avoid being found.

lying low

Emphasizes reducing visibility and activity to avoid attention.

on the lam

Informal term for running away from the authorities.

keeping a low profile

Focuses on behaving in a way that avoids attracting notice.

staying hidden

Highlights the state of being concealed from view or knowledge.

taking cover

Suggests seeking physical protection to avoid danger.

evading capture

Specifically refers to avoiding being caught or apprehended.

remaining in seclusion

Conveys a sense of isolation and withdrawal from society.

dodging

Suggests quick movements to avoid something unpleasant or dangerous.

sheltering

Focuses on finding a place of safety and protection.

FAQs

How to use "hiding out" in a sentence?

You can use "hiding out" to describe someone avoiding detection. For example, "The suspect was "hiding out" in an abandoned warehouse."

What can I say instead of "hiding out"?

You can use alternatives like "lying low", "in hiding", or "laying low" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "hiding out" or "hiding"?

"Hiding out" implies a temporary state of concealment, often to avoid someone or something, while "hiding" is a more general term. The better choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "hiding out" and "fleeing"?

"Hiding out" suggests staying in a concealed location to avoid detection, whereas "fleeing" implies actively running away from danger or pursuit. Fleeing involves movement and escape, while hiding out emphasizes concealment.