1 B2 idiomatic informal
To be determined to obtain or achieve something, particularly with a selfish or aggressive intent.
"Don't trust him — he's only out for what he can get."
inseparable
be out for
B2 informal inseparable transitive
To be determined to get or achieve something, often for selfish or personal gain.
In plain English
To want something very much and be trying hard to get it.
What does "be out for" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic informal
To be seeking revenge or intending to harm someone.
"After the public humiliation, she was out for blood."
inseparable
Usage tip
Often implies a calculating or self-interested motivation: 'be out for blood', 'be out for revenge', 'be out for yourself'. The phrase 'be out for yourself' (looking out for only your own interests) is very common.
Words that pair with "be out for"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
blood revenge gain themselves all they can get number one
How to conjugate "be out for"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
be out for
I/you/we/they
3rd person
is out for
he/she/it
Past simple
was/were out for
yesterday
Past participle
been out for
have + pp
-ing form
being out for
continuous
Hear "be out for" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "be out for" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.