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crack out

B2 informal separable transitive
In simple words

To suddenly take something out and start using it or doing it.

Literal meaning: To break or split something outward — as if breaking open a container to retrieve what's inside.

Meanings

1 B1 idiomatic informal

To suddenly produce or bring out something, especially food, drink, or a special item.

"She cracked out a bottle of wine to celebrate the promotion."

Grammar: separable
2 B2 idiomatic informal

To suddenly display or use a skill or ability, often to impress others.

"He cracked out some impressive dance moves at the party."

Grammar: separable
3 B2 idiomatic informal

To begin doing something with energy or without delay.

"We need to crack out the reports before the deadline tonight."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

Often used informally when someone brings out food, drink, a skill, or a special item. Common in British and Australian English. Slightly informal/colloquial.

Commonly used with

champagne guitar skills food jokes tools

Forms

Base
crack out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
cracks out
he/she/it
Past simple
cracked out
yesterday
Past participle
cracked out
have + pp
-ing form
cracking out
continuous

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Synonyms

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