put oneself out
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To do something that takes extra trouble or effort, especially to help another person.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
informal
To make a special effort or accept personal inconvenience to do something helpful for others.
"Please don't put yourself out on my account — a sandwich is absolutely fine."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2
idiomatic
informal
Used ironically to criticize someone who is clearly not making enough effort.
"Oh, don't put yourself out — it's not like I needed any help moving those heavy boxes."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Often used in negative constructions or questions: 'Don't put yourself out' or 'Would it really put you out?' The negative form is frequently ironic, meaning the speaker wishes the other person had made more effort.
Commonly used with
help guests anyone trouble effort inconvenience
Forms
Base
put oneself out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
puts oneself out
he/she/it
Past simple
put oneself out
yesterday
Past participle
put oneself out
have + pp
-ing form
putting oneself out
continuous
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Synonyms
go out of one's way trouble oneself make an effort inconvenience oneself stretch oneself
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