Browse all

ditch out

C1 slang inseparable intransitive

To leave or abandon a place, person, or commitment suddenly and without fulfilling obligations.

In plain English

To suddenly leave or stop doing something you were supposed to do.

What does "ditch out" mean?

2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.

1 C1 idiomatic slang

To leave a place or commitment suddenly, especially without telling others or fulfilling responsibilities.

"He ditched out on the study session without sending anyone a message."

inseparable
2 C1 idiomatic slang

To abandon someone or something, letting them down.

"She ditched out on her friends right when they needed her most."

inseparable

Literal vs figurative

Words literally mean

To jump out of a ditch or escape from a ditch.

Actually means

To suddenly leave or stop doing something you were supposed to do.

Usage tip

Primarily used in American informal speech. Often implies irresponsibility or letting someone down. Less common than 'ditch' on its own. Occasionally heard as 'ditch out on' someone.

Words that pair with "ditch out"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

plans commitment friend meeting responsibility

How to conjugate "ditch out"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base
ditch out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
ditches out
he/she/it
Past simple
ditched out
yesterday
Past participle
ditched out
have + pp
-ing form
ditching out
continuous

Hear "ditch out" in the wild

Listen to native speakers using "ditch out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

Other ways to say "ditch out"

Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.

Keep exploring

Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.