Put out is a versatile phrasal verb that can be used in various contexts and situations. Whether you are a native English speaker or learning the language, understanding how to use put out in a sentence correctly is essential for effective communication. In this article, we will explore the proper usage of put out and provide examples to help you grasp its meaning and application.
So, how exactly should you use put out in a sentence? Let’s find out.
Put out is commonly used to describe extinguishing a fire or a flame. For instance, you can say, “She quickly put out the candle before leaving the room.” In this sentence, put out implies the act of extinguishing the candle’s flame.
However, put out can also be used figuratively to describe feelings of annoyance or inconvenience caused by someone or something. For example, “The constant interruptions during the meeting put me out.” Here, put out expresses the speaker’s frustration or irritation.
Now that we have explored the basic usage of put out, let’s delve deeper into its different meanings and contexts.
Definition Of Put Out
The phrase “put out” is a versatile and commonly used English expression with various meanings depending on the context in which it is used. At its core, “put out” generally refers to the act of extinguishing or stopping something, but its usage extends beyond this basic definition.
Historically, the origins of the phrase can be traced back to Middle English, where it was derived from the combination of the words “putten” and “outen.” Over time, the expression has evolved and incorporated additional connotations, making it a multifaceted term in contemporary usage.
Different Meanings In Different Contexts
The meaning of “put out” can vary depending on the specific context in which it is employed. Let’s explore some of the different interpretations of this phrase:
- Extinguishing a fire: One of the primary uses of “put out” is in relation to extinguishing flames. In this context, it refers to the action of quelling or suppressing a fire. For example, “The firefighters were able to put out the raging inferno within minutes.”
- Stopping or ceasing an activity: Another common usage of “put out” is when referring to halting or discontinuing an activity. This can pertain to both physical actions and emotional states. For instance, “She decided to put out her cigarette and focus on her health” or “He was so exhausted that he put out a plea for help.”
- Causing inconvenience or annoyance: “Put out” can also describe an act that causes inconvenience, disruption, or annoyance to someone. This usage often implies a sense of imposition or inconvenience. For example, “I didn’t mean to put you out by asking for a favor.”
- Publishing or releasing: In certain contexts, “put out” can refer to the act of publishing or releasing something, such as a book, album, or statement. For instance, “The author put out a new novel that quickly became a bestseller.”
- Expressing effort or energy: Additionally, “put out” can be used to convey the exertion of effort or energy to accomplish a task. This usage often implies going beyond one’s usual capacity. For example, “She put out a tremendous amount of effort to complete the project ahead of schedule.”
These are just a few examples of the diverse range of meanings associated with the phrase “put out.” Its versatility and adaptability make it an integral part of the English language, enabling speakers to express a variety of concepts and actions with precision and clarity.
How To Properly Use Put Out In A Sentence
When it comes to using the phrase “put out” in a sentence, there are certain grammatical rules that should be followed to ensure clarity and precision. This article will delve into these rules, shedding light on the different parts of speech that “put out” can assume in various contexts.
Grammatical Rules Surrounding Put Out
1. Verb Usage:
As a verb phrase, “put out” is commonly used to convey the act of extinguishing or quenching something. It can refer to extinguishing a fire, turning off a light, or even dampening an emotion. For example:
- She put out the candles before leaving the room.
- He put out the fire using a fire extinguisher.
- The therapist helped him put out his anger through counseling.
2. Phrasal Verb Usage:
“Put out” can also function as a phrasal verb, which means it is composed of a verb and one or more particles. In this case, “put out” can have additional meanings beyond extinguishing, such as publishing or producing something. Consider the following examples:
- The author put out a new book last month.
- The band plans to put out their latest album next year.
3. Noun Usage:
Although less common, “put out” can also function as a noun phrase. In this case, it refers to a state of inconvenience or annoyance caused by someone’s actions. Here are a couple of examples:
- Her constant demands became a put out for her colleagues.
- Having to wait for hours was a real put out for the customers.
Different Parts Of Speech For “Put Out”
Depending on its usage in a sentence, “put out” can assume different parts of speech:
| Part of Speech | Example Sentence |
|---|---|
| Verb | She put out the candles before leaving the room. |
| Phrasal Verb | The author put out a new book last month. |
| Noun | Her constant demands became a put out for her colleagues. |
By understanding the different grammatical rules and parts of speech associated with “put out,” you can effectively incorporate this phrase into your sentences while maintaining clarity and precision.
Examples Of Using Put Out In A Sentence
Below are a mix of simple and complex sentences that demonstrate the usage of “put out” in various contexts:
1. Literal Meaning:
– After cooking dinner, she put out the candles on the dining table.
– The firefighter quickly put out the raging fire with the help of his team.
– Remember to put out the trash before the garbage truck arrives.
2. Figurative Meaning – Extinguishing:
– The professor’s groundbreaking research put out the flames of skepticism surrounding the theory.
– The company’s new marketing campaign aims to put out the negative rumors about its products.
– The mayor’s speech sought to put out the growing discontent among the citizens.
3. Figurative Meaning – Inconvenience:
– The sudden rainstorm really put out our plans for a picnic in the park.
– Don’t let a small setback put you out of pursuing your dreams.
– The cancellation of the flight put out many passengers who had important appointments.
4. Figurative Meaning – Publish Or Release:
– The author is excited to put out her latest novel next month.
– The band plans to put out a new album by the end of the year.
– The newspaper decided to put out a special edition to cover the breaking news.
5. Figurative Meaning – Make An Effort:
– She always puts out her best work when faced with a challenging project.
– The team put out a tremendous effort to win the championship.
– The artist put out a series of stunning paintings that captivated the art world.
These examples illustrate the versatility of the phrase “put out” and its ability to convey different meanings depending on the context. From extinguishing fires to releasing creative works, “put out” proves to be a multifaceted expression in the English language.
Edge Cases Or Things To Consider
When it comes to using the phrase “put out” in a sentence, there are a few edge cases and considerations that are worth exploring. By understanding the common mistakes people make and the cultural or regional differences associated with this phrase, you can ensure that your usage is accurate and appropriate.
Common Mistakes People Make When Using Put Out
While “put out” may seem like a straightforward phrase, there are some common mistakes that people often make when using it. By being aware of these errors, you can avoid them and communicate more effectively.
- Confusing “put out” with “put off”: One common mistake is using “put off” instead of “put out.” Although both phrases involve the act of placing something somewhere, they have different meanings. “Put out” typically refers to extinguishing something or making it available, while “put off” means to postpone or delay something.
- Using “put out” inappropriately: Another mistake is using “put out” when another verb would be more suitable. For example, saying “I put out a book” instead of “I published a book” can lead to confusion or misinterpretation. It is important to choose the right verb that accurately conveys your intended meaning.
- Overusing “put out”: Some individuals tend to rely heavily on the phrase “put out” in their writing or speech, leading to repetitive and monotonous language. It is advisable to vary your vocabulary and explore alternative expressions to maintain interest and clarity in your communication.
Cultural Or Regional Differences
While the phrase “put out” is generally understood across English-speaking regions, there may be some cultural or regional differences in its usage. These differences can impact the context and interpretation of the phrase, so it is important to be mindful of them.
In certain cultures or regions, “put out” may have additional connotations or associations that differ from its standard meaning. For instance, in some informal contexts, “put out” can be used to describe someone feeling inconvenienced or bothered by a request. Understanding these nuances can help you avoid potential misunderstandings or unintended offense.
Moreover, idiomatic expressions and collocations involving “put out” may vary across different English-speaking communities. It is always beneficial to familiarize yourself with the local idiomatic usage to ensure effective communication and to avoid sounding out of place.
Overall, by being aware of the common mistakes people make when using “put out” and considering any cultural or regional differences, you can confidently incorporate this phrase into your sentences with precision and cultural sensitivity.
Synonyms Or Alternates To Use
When it comes to expressing the idea of “putting out” something in a sentence, there are several synonyms or alternate words that can be employed to add variety and precision to your language. Each of these alternatives carries its own subtle nuances in meaning or usage, making them suitable for different contexts. Here are four synonyms for “put out” that you can consider incorporating into your writing:
1. Extinguish
The term “extinguish” implies the act of completely quenching or suppressing something, particularly fire or flames. It conveys a sense of thoroughness and finality in the action of putting something out. For instance, you might say, “He swiftly extinguished the candle before leaving the room.”
2. Douse
Similar to “extinguish,” the word “douse” also refers to extinguishing flames or drenching something in liquid. However, “douse” carries a more forceful connotation, suggesting the act of quickly and vigorously pouring or immersing an object in a liquid to put it out. For example, “She doused the bonfire with water to ensure it was fully extinguished.”
3. Quell
“Quell” is a synonym for “put out” that emphasizes the action of suppressing or calming something, often in the context of disturbances, protests, or emotions. It implies the act of bringing something under control or pacifying it. For instance, you could say, “The police managed to quell the riot before it escalated further.”
4. Squelch
The word “squelch” can be used as an alternative to “put out” when referring to the act of suppressing or silencing something, typically noise or dissent. It suggests the action of forcefully stopping or stifling something undesirable. For example, you might say, “The teacher squelched the students’ chatter by giving them a stern look.”
While these synonyms can often be used interchangeably with “put out,” it is essential to consider the context and the specific connotations each word carries. Here is a table summarizing the subtle differences in meaning and usage:
| Synonym | Meaning | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Extinguish | To completely quench or suppress, especially fire or flames | Most commonly used in the context of fire safety or literal extinguishing of flames |
| Douse | To quickly and forcefully extinguish or drench something | Often used when referring to pouring or immersing an object in liquid to put it out |
| Quell | To suppress or pacify something, particularly disturbances or emotions | Frequently used in the context of protests, riots, or controlling intense emotions |
| Squelch | To forcefully stop or silence something, typically noise or dissent | Commonly employed to describe the action of stifling unwanted sounds or shutting down opposing opinions |
By utilizing these synonyms, you can infuse your writing with a richer vocabulary and convey your ideas more precisely, depending on the specific context and the shades of meaning you wish to emphasize.
Related Phrases Or Idioms
When it comes to the usage of the phrase “put out,” there are a few related phrases and idioms that are worth exploring. These expressions offer a glimpse into the versatility and richness of the English language. Let’s delve into some of these phrases and idioms, uncovering their meanings and providing example sentences to illustrate their usage.
1. Put Out The Fire
The phrase “put out the fire” is a common idiom used to describe the act of extinguishing a fire. It is often used metaphorically to refer to resolving a problem or diffusing a tense situation. When someone puts out the fire, they take action to bring a sense of calm or resolution to a particular circumstance.
Example sentence: After a long and heated argument, Sarah managed to put out the fire by offering a sincere apology.
2. Put Someone Out
Another idiomatic usage of “put out” is seen in the phrase “put someone out.” This expression implies inconveniencing or burdening someone, often unintentionally. When you put someone out, you are causing them an inconvenience or trouble.
Example sentence: I didn’t mean to put you out, but could you please pick up my dry cleaning on your way home?
3. Put Out Feelers
The phrase “put out feelers” is a figurative expression that means to make discreet inquiries or gather information about a particular situation or opportunity. When you put out feelers, you are exploring possibilities or testing the waters before making a decision.
Example sentence: Before accepting the job offer, she decided to put out feelers to see if there were any better opportunities available.
4. Put Out To Pasture
The idiom “put out to pasture” is often used to describe the act of retiring or removing someone or something from active duty or engagement. It is commonly associated with the end of a career or the transition into a more relaxed phase of life.
Example sentence: After years of dedicated service, the CEO decided it was time to put himself out to pasture and enjoy a well-deserved retirement.
5. Put Someone Out Of Their Misery
The expression “put someone out of their misery” is a compassionate idiom that means to end someone’s suffering or discomfort, typically in a difficult or painful situation. It suggests an act of mercy or relief.
Example sentence: The veterinarian had to make the difficult decision to put the injured animal out of its misery.
These are just a few examples of how the phrase “put out” is used in various idiomatic expressions. By incorporating these phrases into your vocabulary, you can enhance your understanding of the English language and communicate more effectively.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mastering the correct usage of “put out” is crucial for effective communication. By understanding its various meanings and applying them accurately in sentences, you can convey your thoughts and ideas with precision. Incorrect usage of this phrasal verb can lead to confusion and misinterpretation, hindering the clarity of your message.
Furthermore, practicing the use of “put out” in your own sentences can help solidify your understanding and improve your overall English language skills. By incorporating this phrasal verb into your daily conversations and writing, you can gradually develop a natural command of its nuances and confidently express yourself in a variety of contexts.
Remember, language is a powerful tool, and using it effectively requires continuous learning and practice. So, don’t hesitate to experiment with “put out” in different sentence structures and situations. Embrace the opportunity to expand your vocabulary and enhance your communication skills.
By mastering the correct usage of “put out” and other phrasal verbs, you can elevate your language proficiency and become a more articulate and persuasive communicator.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.