throw out

USAGE SUMMARY

'throw out' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to mean to discard or get rid of someone or something, such as in the following example: We decided to throw out the old furniture and get something new.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Throw out some dates".

The New York Times

Throw out all stereotypes.

The Washington Post

Throw out the rest.

Harvard Business Review

What to throw out?

The New York Times

We throw out anything.

The New York Times - Arts

"Why throw out?

The New York Times

"I had to throw out my clothes.

The New York Times

"Why do moms throw out comic books?

The New York Times

I throw out the first three shots.

The New York Times - Food

Don't throw out your DVDs.

The Washington Post

Who would throw out a wedding album?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "throw out" to mean 'discard', consider the formality of your context; more formal situations may benefit from using "dispose of".

Common error

Avoid using "throw out" in contexts where the meaning could be ambiguous. If you intend to convey a complex idea, ensure the audience clearly understands your metaphorical usage.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "throw out" primarily functions as a dynamic verb indicating an action of discarding, expelling, or suggesting. Ludwig provides examples where it's used to describe physical actions (discarding items) and abstract actions (presenting ideas).

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Science

8%

Reference

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "throw out" is a versatile phrasal verb with multiple meanings, including discarding, expelling, and suggesting. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. While very common, the choice between "throw out" and more formal alternatives like "dispose of" depends on the context. Remember to consider the potential for ambiguity when using "throw out" metaphorically. Common contexts include news and media and general conversation, but the frequency decreases in more academic or scientific discourse. Overall, understanding the nuances of "throw out" will enhance your communication skills.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

discard

A more formal and direct synonym for getting rid of something unwanted.

dispose of

A more formal term for discarding, often used in official contexts.

get rid of

A common and straightforward way to express disposal.

eliminate

Suggests a more thorough and decisive removal.

expel

Specifically refers to forcing someone out of a place or organization.

eject

Similar to expel, but can also apply to objects being forced out.

reject

Implies a refusal to accept or consider something.

dismiss

Can mean to reject or to remove from a position.

get shot of

Informal British English phrase for getting rid of something.

present

Suggesting an idea for consideration, in the sense of "throwing out" a suggestion.

FAQs

How to use "throw out" in a sentence?

You can use "throw out" to mean discard something physical, as in "I need to throw out these old shoes". It can also mean to expel someone, as in "The referee threatened to throw out the player". Finally, it can mean to suggest an idea, as in "Let me throw out a few ideas for the project".

What can I say instead of "throw out"?

You can use alternatives like "discard", "get rid of", or "eliminate" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "throw out" or "throw away"?

"Throw out" and "throw away" are generally interchangeable and mean the same thing: to get rid of something you no longer want.

What's the difference between "throw out" and "suggest"?

While "throw out" can mean suggest, it's more informal. If you "throw out" an idea, you're offering it for consideration, but it might not be fully developed. "Suggest" is a more neutral and direct way to offer an idea.