strike out
phrasal verb·1 sense·particle out
Meanings
Begin an independent course of action, especially in life or career
Why “out”? Something spreads, grows, or extends beyond its first size, shape, or path.
“She struck out on her own.”
“He struck out as a writer.”
Don't confuse with
Strike out means begin an independent course of action, especially in life or career. Strike in means interrupt a conversation suddenly with a comment.
Test yourself
“She struck out on her own.” What does it mean?
Nearby in the meaning map
Sink In connects verbs by particle pattern, contrast pairs, and shared base verbs.
strike in
A contrast learners often mix up
Interrupt a conversation suddenly with a comment
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
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 back
Same base verb: strike
Retaliate suddenly
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