fill out
phrasal verb·3 senses·particle out
Meanings
Complete a form by writing in the required information
Why “out”? Something comes into the open. People can see it, know it, or understand it.
“Please fill out this form.”
“Fill out the tax form online.”
Become rounder or more developed in shape
Why “out”? Spreading outward from a centre to many recipients.
“He's filled out since school.”
“The puppy filled out over winter.”
Add details to make something more complete
“Fill out the introduction with examples.”
“Add stories to fill out the chapter.”
Don't confuse with
Test yourself
“Please fill out this form.” What does it mean?
Nearby in the meaning map
Sink In connects verbs by particle pattern, contrast pairs, and shared base verbs.
fill in
A contrast learners often mix up
Write information into the blanks of a form; Temporarily do someone else's job; Tell someone the news or details they missed; Put material into a hole or gap so it is full
fill up
A contrast learners often mix up
Make completely full
act out
Same out pattern: becoming clear
Perform a scene, story, or plan with actions; Express feelings through aggressive or attention-seeking behaviour
bail out
Same out pattern: becoming clear
Rescue someone, especially financially
bear out
Same out pattern: becoming clear
Provide evidence that confirms what someone has said
blast out
Same out pattern: becoming clear
Play music extremely loudly through speakers
branch out
Same out pattern: distribution
Start doing something new or different; (of a road, river or organisation) split off in a new direction; Become independent and start your own venture
break out
Same out pattern: becoming clear
(of war, fire or disease) start suddenly
Tell it apart
Side-by-side comparisons with the verbs learners most often confuse for “fill out”.
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