Phrasal verb
be out to
Meanings
to be trying or intending to do something; to aim to achieve a goal
to be intending to harm, trick, or cause trouble for someone (often used in worries or accusations)
Definition
“Be out to” means to be trying or intending to do something, often in a determined way.
When you are “out to” do something, you are actively trying or planning to achieve it. It often suggests strong motivation and effort. In some contexts, it can also imply a negative intention, like wanting to harm or criticize someone.
Examples
- I’m out to prove I can handle the new role.
- They’re out to win the quiz night, so they’ve been practicing all week.
- She’s out to set a personal best in the swim meet.
- He felt his coworker was out to get him after the meeting turned hostile.
Common mistake
Learners often forget the verb “be” and say “I out to…” instead of “I’m out to…”.
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.