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.”
“Leo filled out the registration form at the seaside hotel.”
Become rounder or more developed in shape
Why “out”? Something spreads, grows, or extends beyond its first size, shape, or path.
“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.”
Common mistake
I filled the application.
I filled out the application.
Complete a form = fill out (US) or fill in (UK).
Natural collocations
The word partners “fill out” most often appears with — learn the phrase, not just the verb.
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
bear out
Same out pattern: becoming clear
Provide evidence that confirms what someone has said
branch out
Same out pattern: expansion
Start doing something new or different; (of a road, river or organisation) Divide into paths that move in different directions; Become independent and start your own business or project
break out
Same out pattern: becoming clear
(of war, fire or disease) Start suddenly; Escape from a locked or guarded place
bring out
Same out pattern: becoming clear
Make a quality or feature more obvious; Publish or launch a new product; Cause a particular response or behaviour in someone; Take something out of a container or place to show it; Encourage a shy person to be more confident
call out
Same out pattern: becoming clear
Shout something loudly or summon services
check out
Same out pattern: becoming clear
Leave a hotel after paying; Look at or examine
Tell it apart
Side-by-side comparisons with the verbs learners most often confuse for “fill out”.
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