spill out

USAGE SUMMARY

"spill out" is correct and usable in written English.
It is most commonly used as an idiom which expresses the idea of something being plentiful, overflowing, or pouring out. For example: The children's laughter spilled out of the house and filled the air with joy.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I spill out on to the streets.

Independent

Urrutia Lacroix's omissions spill out as messily as his affirmations.

The New York Times - Books

Tables spill out into a pleasant cobbled courtyard.

The Guardian - Travel

These children spill out and demand you hold them together.

The Guardian

One never knows what insanities might spill out.

The New York Times

Her face is wide open; words spill out of her.

The Guardian

New information seems to spill out as quickly as I take it in.

The New York Times

Rice paddies spill out into the valley, and persimmon and apple orchards line the roads.

The New York Times

Chances are the meaning of tweet will soon spill out of its ornithological domain.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

After ROI delineation the spill-out region is identified and for each voxel inside the spill-out region the local background is computed (see below).

EJNMMI Research

The shaded areas represent the effective spill-out from the ROI (difference of spill-out from the ROI and spill-in from the surrounding background).

EJNMMI Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "spill out" to vividly describe the movement of people from a confined space, or the release of information or emotions in an uncontrolled manner. For example, "Fans spilled out of the stadium after the concert."

Common error

Avoid using "spill out" when a more precise verb would be clearer. While versatile, overuse can dilute its impact. Consider alternatives like "reveal", "disclose", or "emerge" for greater clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spill out" functions primarily as a phrasal verb, indicating movement or release. It describes the action of something (people, contents, information) exiting or being emitted from a confined space or source, often implying abundance or lack of control. As Ludwig AI explains, it is commonly used as an idiom expressing overflowing.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

21%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "spill out" is a versatile phrasal verb denoting the act of exiting or releasing, often with an implication of abundance or lack of restraint. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across contexts. As shown by Ludwig's examples, it's frequently employed in news reporting and general writing to vividly describe both physical movements and abstract concepts, such as emotions or information. While generally neutral in tone, careful consideration should be given to avoid overuse and ensure the most precise verb is selected for clarity. Related phrases like "pour forth", "stream out", and "surge out" offer similar but nuanced alternatives, catering to specific descriptive needs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pour forth

Implies a continuous and abundant flow, like liquid or emotions.

flood out

Suggests an overwhelming and rapid outflow.

stream out

Suggests a steady and directional movement of people or things.

gush out

Suggests a forceful and uncontrolled emission.

surge out

Indicates a sudden and powerful release or exit.

rush out

Indicates a hurried and energetic exit.

empty out

Focuses on the act of something becoming vacant as contents leave.

emerge from

Highlights the act of coming out into view from an enclosed space.

escape from

Implies a movement away from confinement or danger.

discharge

Describes a formal or official release of something.

FAQs

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

You can use "spill out" to describe people exiting a place in large numbers, as in "The crowd "spilled out" of the theater." It can also describe emotions or secrets being revealed uncontrollably.

What's the difference between "spill out" and "pour out"?

"Spill out" often implies a less controlled or accidental release, while "pour out" suggests a more deliberate action or a continuous flow.

What can I say instead of "spill out"?

Alternatives include "stream out", "surge out", or "flood out", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "spill out" to describe abstract concepts like ideas or secrets?

Yes, "spill out" can be used metaphorically to describe the sudden and uncontrolled release of information, thoughts, or emotions. For example, "Her feelings "spilled out" during the therapy session."