What are the definitions of “zoom out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Focus less closely.
The camera ZOOMED OUT to show all the crowd.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “zoom out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb zoom out is to focus less closely on something, usually by moving the camera or lens away from the subject. This action allows a wider view of the scene or object.
What are the different verb forms of “zoom out”?
| Root Verb | zoom out |
| Third Person Singular Present | zooms out |
| Present Participle | zooming out |
| Simple Past | zoomed out |
| Past Participle | zoomed out |
Example
When taking a group photo, make sure to zoom out to capture everyone.
Example
The camera zooms out to reveal the entire landscape.
Example
She is zooming out to get a better view of the whole painting.
Example
He zoomed out to show the entire city skyline.
Example
The camera had zoomed out to capture the full scene.
What kind of phrasal verb is “zoom out”?
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
“zoom out” 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
The camera zoomed out to show the entire room.
Example
She zoomed out to see the whole map.
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
“zoom out” 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
The camera zoomed out to show the entire room.
Example
She zoomed out to see the whole map.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “zoom out”?
Zoom out on a map
To make a map or image appear smaller, showing a larger area.
Example
When using a digital map, you can zoom out to see the surrounding area.
Zoom out in a video call
To adjust the camera view in a video call to show more of the background or include more people.
Example
During the video conference, he zoomed out to include his colleagues in the frame.
Zoom out in perspective
To consider a situation or problem from a broader or more distant viewpoint.
Example
Sometimes it's helpful to zoom out and look at the bigger picture when making decisions.
Good things to know
Does “zoom out” have an informal or formal tone?
Zoom out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more technical or professional settings, such as photography, videography, or digital mapping.
What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “zoom out”?
Synonyms
- widen
- pull back
- recede
- retreat
- enlarge view
- expand view
Antonyms
- enlarge
- zoom in
- focus
- narrow
- close up
- magnify
