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phase out

B1 neutral separable transitive
In simple words

To slowly stop using or making something until it completely disappears.

Meanings

1 B1 neutral

To stop producing or selling a product gradually over time.

"The manufacturer decided to phase out the older model as demand dropped."

Grammar: separable
2 B1 neutral

To gradually stop using a technology, chemical, or energy source.

"Many countries have committed to phasing out coal-fired power stations by 2035."

Grammar: separable
3 B2 neutral

To gradually end a policy, rule, or practice.

"The university is phasing out its traditional examination format in favour of continuous assessment."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

Very commonly used in business, environmental, and government contexts. Can appear in passive constructions: 'leaded petrol was phased out in the 1990s'. Frequently collocates with products, chemicals, technologies, and policies that are becoming obsolete or harmful. Common in both British and American English.

Commonly used with

fossil fuels plastic bags technology subsidies chemicals product

Forms

Base
phase out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
phases out
he/she/it
Past simple
phased out
yesterday
Past participle
phased out
have + pp
-ing form
phasing out
continuous

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Synonyms

discontinue eliminate wind down retire abolish withdraw

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