tumbled out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tumbled out" is correct and can be used in written English.
It commonly means that something was said quickly and perhaps without much thought. For example, "The words tumbled out of her mouth before she had a chance to think them through."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The descriptions tumbled out.

The New York Times

The gossip tumbled out.

The New York Times

Words tumbled out.

The New York Times - Magazine

His frustration tumbled out like ice cubes.

The New York Times - Sports

His body tumbled out of the rink.

The New York Times - Sports

He tumbled out into the room.

The New Yorker

Amid whispers, her story tumbled out.

The Guardian

The words tumbled out then, unable to be suppressed.

The Economist

Officer Richards, meanwhile, had tumbled out of the way.

The New York Times

Cold smoke tumbled out and rolled down the long table.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

The words tumble out.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "tumbled out" to convey a sense of suddenness and lack of control. For instance, "The truth tumbled out during the heated argument."

Common error

Avoid using "tumbled out" in highly formal or professional writing, as it can sound too informal. Opt for more sophisticated synonyms such as "emerged" or "were revealed" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "tumbled out" functions as a dynamic descriptor, indicating a sudden or uncontrolled release or movement. Examples from Ludwig show its use to describe words spoken impulsively, people exiting vehicles, or objects falling out. Ludwig AI confirms its validity in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "tumbled out" is a common and valid expression used to describe a sudden, often uncontrolled, release or movement. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently encountered in diverse contexts, particularly in news and media. It conveys a sense of spontaneity and lack of deliberate action. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives in highly professional or academic writing. When deciding on an alternative consider phrases as spilled out, burst out, or poured forth based on context to create even more accurate nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

spilled out

Suggests a less forceful or more gradual release, similar to liquid being poured.

poured forth

Implies a continuous and abundant flow, often used for emotions or words.

burst out

Indicates a sudden and forceful release, often associated with laughter or anger.

gushed out

Suggests an enthusiastic or effusive outpouring, similar to water from a geyser.

flooded out

Implies an overwhelming release, as if by a flood.

erupted from

Indicates a violent and sudden release, like a volcanic eruption.

escaped from

Suggests a release from confinement or restriction, often used for secrets or information.

streamed out

Implies a continuous and directed flow, like a stream of water.

came rushing out

Highlights the speed and intensity of the release.

were blurted out

Suggests that words were spoken impulsively or without thinking.

FAQs

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

You can use "tumbled out" to describe something that comes out quickly and without much control. For example, "The words "tumbled out" before she could stop herself" or "The children "tumbled out" of the car eager to play".

What are some alternatives to "tumbled out"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "spilled out", "burst out", or "poured forth" as alternatives to "tumbled out".

Is "tumbled out" appropriate for formal writing?

While "tumbled out" is acceptable in many contexts, it may be too informal for highly formal writing. In such cases, consider using more formal alternatives like "emerged" or "were revealed".

What's the difference between "tumbled out" and "came out"?

"Tumbled out" implies a lack of control or suddenness, whereas "came out" is more neutral. For example, "The secret came out" simply means it was revealed, but "The secret "tumbled out"" suggests it was revealed unexpectedly or unintentionally.