branch out
phrasal verb·3 senses·particle out
Meanings
Start doing something new or different
Why “out”? Something spreads, grows, or extends beyond its first size, shape, or path.
“She branched out into design.”
“The cafe branched out into making wedding cakes.”
(of a road, river or organisation)Divide into paths that move in different directions
“The path branches out near the lake.”
“The river branches out into several small streams.”
Become independent and start your own business or project
“She left the firm to branch out on her own.”
“He branched out on his own.”
Common mistake
The company branched out new markets.
The company branched out into new markets.
Use into before the new area.
Natural collocations
The word partners “branch out” most often appears with — learn the phrase, not just the verb.
Test yourself
“She branched out into design.” What does it mean?
Nearby in the meaning map
Sink In connects verbs by particle pattern, contrast pairs, and shared base verbs.
drag out
Same out pattern: expansion
Make something last longer than necessary
fill out
Same out pattern: expansion
Complete a form by writing in the required information; Become rounder or more developed in shape; Add details to make something more complete
piece out
Same out pattern: expansion
Make something larger or complete by adding pieces or extra material
spread out
Same out pattern: expansion
Extend over a wide area
stretch out
Same out pattern: expansion
Rest with your body fully extended
strike out
Same out pattern: expansion
Begin an independent course of action, especially in life or career
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