Browse all

last out

B2 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words

To have enough of something to get through a difficult time, or to keep going until a period of time is finished.

Literal meaning: To 'last' to the outer edge of a period — transparent once the 'last' base verb is understood.

Meanings

1 B2 neutral

(Of a supply or resource) to be sufficient to cover a required period of time.

"Do you think the food will last out until the end of the expedition?"

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 neutral

(Of a person) to survive, endure, or remain healthy enough to get through a difficult period.

"The doctors weren't sure he would last out the night, but he pulled through."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B2 informal

To stay in a job, relationship, or role for the full duration despite difficulties.

"She didn't think her new colleague would last out the probation period."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Common in British English. Often used to talk about supplies, energy, money, or people surviving a difficult period. Frequently appears in questions and negatives: 'Will it last out?', 'He won't last out the winter.'

Commonly used with

winter week supplies money battery season

Forms

Base
last out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
lasts out
he/she/it
Past simple
lasted out
yesterday
Past participle
lasted out
have + pp
-ing form
lasting out
continuous

Understand "last out" better

Try:

Real video examples

Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.

Synonyms

hold out see out endure survive carry through keep going

Want to master this phrasal verb?

Practice "last out" on Looplines