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bug out

B2 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words

To get out fast, to panic, or for your eyes to go wide with shock.

Literal meaning: For insects or other creatures, 'bug out' could literally mean a bug leaving — but this is not the origin.

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic informal

To evacuate or leave a location quickly in response to an emergency.

"When the wildfire changed direction, the whole town had to bug out within the hour."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic informal

To panic or become overwhelmed with anxiety or fear.

"He totally bugged out when he heard the exam had been moved to tomorrow."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B1 idiomatic informal

(Of eyes) to bulge or protrude due to shock or surprise.

"Her eyes bugged out when she saw the price tag on the dress."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Has three distinct senses: military/survivalist evacuation, informal panicking, and a physical description of bulging eyes. The evacuation sense is common in prepper and military contexts. The eye-bulging sense is often used humorously.

Commonly used with

eyes plan emergency quickly completely

Forms

Base
bug out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bugs out
he/she/it
Past simple
buged out
yesterday
Past participle
buged out
have + pp
-ing form
buging out
continuous

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