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file out

B2 neutral inseparable intransitive

To leave a place in an orderly single-file line, one person after another.

In plain English

To walk out of a room one by one in a neat line.

What does "file out" mean?

One main meaning — here's how to use it.

1 B2 neutral

To leave a room or space in a line, one person following another in an orderly way.

"When the bell rang, the pupils filed out of the classroom in silence."

"The congregation filed out of the church into the bright afternoon sun."

— Cormac McCarthy, The Road, 2006
inseparable

Literal vs figurative

Words literally mean

To exit in a 'file' (a line of people one behind the other).

Actually means

To walk out of a room one by one in a neat line.

Usage tip

Often used in formal or semi-formal contexts such as ceremonies, military drills, classrooms, and courtrooms. Conveys a sense of order and quiet movement.

Words that pair with "file out"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

audience congregation soldiers students mourners prisoners

How to conjugate "file out"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base
file out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
files out
he/she/it
Past simple
filed out
yesterday
Past participle
filed out
have + pp
-ing form
filing out
continuous

Hear "file out" in the wild

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

Keep exploring

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