leap out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "leap out" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that stands out or becomes very noticeable, often in a visual or metaphorical sense. Example: "The bright colors of the painting really leap out at you when you enter the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Three people leap out: SADIE, LAVINIA, and FIONA.

The New Yorker

The colours leap out from the long, sombre walls.

The Guardian - Arts

And it must leap out with brand identity".

The New Yorker

And Meier's strengths, in turn, may leap out all the more vividly set off against Irwin's.

The New Yorker

He will write the various possibilities on cards, and one will simply leap out at him.

The New York Times

Voices leap out around her. Christmas music settles on the air.

The New Yorker

She is always tense, as if a lion will leap out and eat us.

The New Yorker

"Once there, the lads would leap out and set to operating the crane and its basket.

The Economist

Nietzsche's idea of eternal recurrence would leap out from philosophy and into history.

Independent

Speed to Leeds Did "Leeds" leap out at you from that selection of cities?

Independent

The work makes the buildings of a bygone city leap out at the viewer.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "leap out" when you want to emphasize a sudden or striking appearance. For example, "The solution to the problem seemed to leap out at me while I was showering."

Common error

While "leap out" is versatile, avoid using it excessively in highly formal writing where more sophisticated vocabulary might be appropriate. Consider alternatives like "emerge" or "become apparent" for a more refined tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "leap out" functions primarily as an intransitive phrasal verb. Ludwig AI examples show it indicating a sudden appearance, prominence, or forceful exit. It often describes something becoming immediately noticeable or springing into view.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

13%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "leap out" is a frequently used and grammatically sound phrasal verb. Ludwig AI confirms its versatile application across various contexts, particularly in News & Media. It effectively conveys a sudden appearance or striking prominence, making it suitable for emphasizing moments that immediately grab attention. While generally neutral in register, careful consideration should be given to its usage in formal contexts where more refined vocabulary might be preferred. Remember to use it when emphasizing something is especially sudden or noticeable, and be mindful of your overall tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stand out

Indicates prominence or distinctiveness, similar to something catching immediate attention.

jump out

Implies a sudden or abrupt appearance, comparable to a physical jump.

emerge suddenly

Focuses on the unexpected nature of appearing, akin to "leap out".

become noticeable

Highlights the act of gaining attention, similar to the impact of something leaping out.

spring forth

Suggests a vigorous and sudden emanation, like something bursting out.

burst out

Implies a sudden and forceful exit or appearance.

catch the eye

Refers to something that is visually striking or immediately noticeable.

become apparent

Indicates that something becomes obvious or clear, similar to something leaping out in understanding.

make an appearance

Refers to the act of showing up, which can sometimes be sudden or unexpected.

escape

Specifically refers to breaking free or exiting a confined space quickly.

FAQs

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

You can use "leap out" to describe something that suddenly appears or becomes noticeable. For example, "The vibrant colors in the painting really leap out". It can also describe a sudden action, such as "The cat was ready to leap out at any moment".

What can I say instead of "leap out"?

You can use alternatives like "stand out", "jump out", or "emerge suddenly" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "leap out" or "leapt out"?

"Leap out" is the present tense, while "leapt out" is the past tense. For example, "The dog will leap out" (future) versus "The dog leapt out" (past).

What's the difference between "leap out" and "stand out"?

"Leap out" suggests a sudden and often physical appearance, while "stand out" implies prominence or distinctiveness. "The bright colors leap out" (sudden visual impact), versus "Her qualifications stand out" (prominence).