What are the definitions of “go out for”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Become a candidate, apply for something.
She WENT OUT FOR a place on the team.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “go out for”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb go out for is to apply or try out for something, usually a team or a role. For example, it can mean trying out for a sports team, auditioning for a role in a play, or applying for a job.
What are the different verb forms of “go out for”?
| Root Verb | go out for |
| Third Person Singular Present | goes out for |
| Present Participle | going out for |
| Simple Past | went out for |
| Past Participle | gone out for |
Example
I decided to go out for the school play.
Example
She goes out for the basketball team every year.
Example
He is going out for the lead role in the musical.
Example
Last year, they went out for the debate team.
Example
He has gone out for many auditions, but hasn't landed a role yet.
What kind of phrasal verb is “go out for”?
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
“go out for” 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
She went out for a place on the team.
Example
He went out for the lead role in the play.
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
“go out for” 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
She went out for a place on the team.
Example
He went out for the lead role in the play.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “go out for”?
Go out for a meal
To eat at a restaurant instead of at home.
Example
Let's go out for dinner tonight, I don't feel like cooking.
Go out for a drink
To go to a bar or pub to have a drink.
Example
After work, they usually go out for a drink.
Go out for a walk
To leave one's home or workplace to take a walk.
Example
Every evening, she goes out for a walk in the park.
Good things to know
Does “go out for” have an informal or formal tone?
Go out for is a neutral phrasal verb. It is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts. In a formal setting, it might be used to describe someone applying for a position or role. In an informal context, it could be used to suggest going to a restaurant or bar.
