| Phrasal verb | Main meaning |
|---|---|
break out [breɪk aʊt] | to start suddenly (fire, war, disease) |
Other meanings
- to escape from confinement
- (of skin) to erupt in spots or a rash
- to bring something out for a special occasion
Example Sentences Using the Phrasal Verb "break out"
- The fire broke out in the warehouse at dawn.
- Several prisoners broke out during the storm.
- I always break out in hives after eating shellfish.
- Let’s break out the champagne to celebrate.
Features of Using "break out"
Separability:Optionally separable
Transitivity:Intransitive
Level:B2
Most uses are intransitive; the transitive sense (“break out something”) is separable and means “bring out / use for a special moment.”
Other phrasal verbs with the verb break
🔗 Learn more about the irregular verb break, including its forms and usage.