phase out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "phase out" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to the process of ending or stopping something gradually or over time. For example, "The government is phasing out research grants for the summer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

43 human-written examples

I had just let it phase out.

The New York Times - Magazine

A lot of women phase out".

The New York Times

"You phase out brown coal quickly, you phase out black coal reasonably quickly after that.

The Guardian

Kellogg will phase out such toys by Sept. 30.

The New York Times

Major economies have debated how fast to phase out HFCs.

The Guardian

Decisions in California and elsewhere to phase out M.T.B.E.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

17 human-written examples

In this phase, out-door running was also initiated.

BMC Public Health

China did not set a timescale for the phase-out.

The Guardian

One phase-out rule is needed, both men said.

The New York Times

Or is a slower, more considered phase-out more wise?

The Guardian

Plans for this proposed phase-out should be abandoned.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "phase out", specify a timeline to provide clarity and manage expectations. For example, "The company will phase out the old software by the end of the year".

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by clearly stating what is being phased out and what will replace it. Lack of clarity can lead to confusion and resistance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "phase out" functions as a phrasal verb, specifically a transitive verb. It requires an object, indicating what is being gradually discontinued. As shown by Ludwig's examples, it commonly appears in contexts related to policy changes and technological transitions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "phase out" is a very common and grammatically correct phrasal verb used to describe the gradual discontinuation of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. Predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business contexts, it's essential to specify the timeline and what will replace the phased-out element to avoid ambiguity. Alternatives like "gradually discontinue" or "progressively eliminate" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember that "phase out" implies a gradual process, so avoid using it with terms that suggest immediacy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

gradually discontinue

Focuses on the gradual aspect of stopping something.

progressively eliminate

Emphasizes the step-by-step removal of something.

slowly abolish

Highlights the gradual end of a system or practice.

stepwise removal

Describes a removal process that occurs in stages.

wind down

Suggests a gradual reduction in activity or availability.

taper off

Indicates a gradual decrease in quantity or intensity.

cut back gradually

Implies a slow reduction in something.

reduce incrementally

Focuses on making small, progressive reductions.

cease gradually

Highlights the gradual cessation of an action or process.

discontinue in stages

Describes the process of stopping something over a period of time.

FAQs

How is "phase out" used in a sentence?

The phrase "phase out" means to gradually discontinue something. For example, "The government plans to phase out fossil fuel subsidies over the next decade."

What's the difference between "phase out" and "eliminate"?

"Phase out" implies a gradual process of removal, while "eliminate" suggests an immediate and complete removal.

What can I say instead of "phase out"?

You can use alternatives like "gradually discontinue", "progressively eliminate", or "wind down" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "phase out" immediately?

While grammatically correct, using "phase out" with "immediately" can be contradictory. "Phase out" implies a gradual process, so using it with "immediately" might confuse the reader. Consider using "eliminate immediately" instead.