What are the definitions of “start out to”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Intend, plan.
I didn't START OUT TO become the boss- it just happened.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “start out to”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb start out to is to have an intention or plan to do something. It means that you begin a task or journey with a specific goal in mind.
What are the different verb forms of “start out to”?
| Root Verb | start out to |
| Third Person Singular Present | starts out to |
| Present Participle | starting out to |
| Simple Past | started out to |
| Past Participle | started out to |
Example
She started out to become a doctor, but later changed her mind.
Example
He starts out to learn a new language every year.
Example
They are starting out to create a new business together.
Example
We started out to clean the house, but got distracted by a movie.
Example
She had started out to write a novel, but never finished it.
What kind of phrasal verb is “start out to”?
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
“start out to” 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
I started out to become a teacher.
Example
They started out to travel the world.
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
“start out to” 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
I started out to become a teacher.
Example
They started out to travel the world.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “start out to”?
Start out as
Begin a career or activity in a specific role or position.
Example
She started out as an intern, but quickly moved up the ranks.
Start out with
Begin a task or activity with a specific resource or item.
Example
They started out with a small budget, but eventually secured more funding.
Start out on
Begin a journey or adventure.
Example
He started out on a long hike through the mountains.
Good things to know
Does “start out to” have an informal or formal tone?
Start out to is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
