Phrasal verb
throw out
Meanings
To get rid of something by putting it in the trash or removing it from a place.
To reject or dismiss an idea, suggestion, or plan.
To force someone to leave a place.
Definition
To throw out means to get rid of something you no longer want or need.
To throw out means to discard something, usually because it is unwanted, old, or no longer useful. It is often used for trash, expired food, or broken items. It can also mean to reject an idea or suggestion during a discussion.
Examples
- I need to throw out the leftovers before they start to smell.
- You should throw out those torn socks and buy a new pair.
- He threw out my suggestion without even thinking about it.
- They threw out the broken chair during the move.
- The bouncer threw out a man who was shouting at the door.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse "throw out" (discard) with "throw away" and may use it without an object, but it usually needs something specific to be thrown out.
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.