they got out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they got out" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or a group of people exiting a place or situation. Example: "After the movie ended, they got out of the theater and headed to the parking lot."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Once again they got out to push.

The New York Times

"They had these cute little things that, if they got out, they got out of control.

The New Yorker

They got out quite a few.

The New Yorker

Where Madigan was playing defense, they got out early".

The New York Times

"They got out in front of the matter".

The New York Times

"When they got out, they thanked me," he said.

The Guardian

Bloomingdale's happy they got out after nesting season.

The New Yorker

They got out on Eleventh Avenue at Sixty-fifth Street. Sixty-fifth Street

The New Yorker

"At the hospital, they got out all the metal that had been ground into my skin.

The New Yorker

They got out only after the doors had been pried open.

The New York Times

For passengers, the smart move was to cooperate and hope that they got out okay.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "they got out", ensure the context clearly indicates the place or situation from which they exited. For instance, specify "they got out of the car" or "they got out of the agreement".

Common error

Avoid using "they got out" without specifying where "they" exited from. Unclear context can confuse the reader.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they got out" functions as a verb phrase indicating an action of leaving or exiting. Examples from Ludwig show various scenarios, such as physically exiting a vehicle or leaving a particular situation. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "they got out" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe a group of people leaving a place or situation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability, with numerous examples found in news and media sources. While generally neutral in register, it leans toward informal, and more formal alternatives may be appropriate in certain contexts. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying what "they" are getting out of to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they exited

This alternative offers a more formal and direct synonym, simply indicating that the individuals left a place or situation.

they left

A straightforward synonym with a slightly broader sense, implying departure without necessarily detailing the circumstances.

they escaped

This suggests a more urgent departure, often implying danger or confinement from which they freed themselves.

they departed

A more formal alternative to 'left', often used in official or written contexts to indicate leaving a place.

they withdrew

This conveys a sense of retreat or pulling back, potentially from a conflict or commitment.

they bailed out

This idiom suggests leaving a situation quickly, often because it is becoming problematic or dangerous.

they cleared out

This indicates a thorough departure, often implying that the place was emptied completely.

they made their exit

A slightly theatrical way of saying they left, often used when the departure is notable or stylish.

they absconded

This implies a secret or sudden departure, often to avoid legal consequences or responsibilities.

they evacuated

This suggests an organized departure, usually due to a threat or emergency.

FAQs

What does "they got out" mean?

The phrase "they got out" generally means a group of people exited or left a place or situation. The precise meaning depends on the context in which it is used.

How can I use "they got out" in a sentence?

You can use "they got out" in sentences like, "They got out of the car at the traffic light" or "They got out of the business before it went bankrupt".

What are some alternatives to saying "they got out"?

Some alternatives include "they exited", "they left", or "they escaped", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "they got out" formal or informal?

"They got out" is generally considered informal. In more formal contexts, consider using "they exited" or "they departed".