Phrasal verb
break out in
Meanings
to suddenly develop a rash, spots, or another visible skin reaction
to suddenly begin sweating, often from heat, fear, or nervousness
Definition
To suddenly develop something noticeable, especially a rash, sweat, or spots.
“Break out in” means to suddenly show a visible condition on your body, such as a rash, sweat, or spots. It often happens quickly and may be caused by heat, stress, or irritation. It is followed by a noun (break out in + rash/sweat/spots).
Examples
- I break out in a rash when I use that harsh soap.
- You broke out in sweat as soon as the presentation started.
- He breaks out in spots after long flights.
- She broke out in hives during the outdoor training session.
- They break out in a cold sweat whenever the alarm goes off.
Common mistake
Learners often say “break out” without “in,” but for reactions you should use “break out in + noun” (e.g., “break out in a rash”).
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.