What are the definitions of “be out of”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Have no more left.
We're OUT OF coffee so I'll have to go and get some.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “be out of”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb be out of is to have no more of something left. It means that something is finished, used up, or not available anymore.
What are the different verb forms of “be out of”?
| Root Verb | be out of |
| Third Person Singular Present | is out of |
| Present Participle | being out of |
| Simple Past | was/were out of |
| Past Participle | been out of |
Example
We are out of milk, so I need to buy some more.
Example
She is out of time to finish her project.
Example
They are being out of patience with the delays.
Example
Yesterday, we were out of bread, so we couldn't make sandwiches.
Example
The store has been out of stock for a week.
What kind of phrasal verb is “be out of”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“be out of” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
We are out of sugar.
Example
The store is out of my favorite snack.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“be out of” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
We are out of sugar.
Example
The store is out of my favorite snack.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “be out of”?
Be out of touch
Not aware of recent news or developments.
Example
He is out of touch with the latest technology trends.
Be out of one's depth
To be in a situation that is too difficult or complex to handle.
Example
I am out of my depth when it comes to advanced mathematics.
Be out of the question
To be impossible or not allowed.
Example
Taking a vacation right now is out of the question due to our busy schedule.
Good things to know
Does “be out of” have an informal or formal tone?
Be out of is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, depending on the specific context.
