Phrasal verb
be out for
Meanings
to be determined to get or achieve something
to be trying to harm someone or take something from them (e.g., their job, reputation, or position)
to be seeking a particular experience or sensation (such as fun, excitement, or adventure)
Definition
To be out for something means to be trying hard to get it, often strongly or aggressively.
If you are out for something, you are actively aiming to get it or achieve it. It often suggests strong determination and can imply selfishness or hostility depending on context. Common targets include success, attention, revenge, or someone’s job.
Examples
- I’m out for a promotion this year, so I’m taking on extra projects.
- She’s out for revenge after the rumor spread at school.
- They’re out for adventure, so they took the early train to the mountains.
- He’s out for your job, so keep your work organized and visible.
Common mistake
Learners often say “be out to” when they mean “be out for” (aiming to get something), but “out to” usually means intending to do something.
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.