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."
separable
phase out
B1 neutral separable transitive
To gradually stop using, producing, or providing something until it is completely eliminated.
In plain English
To slowly stop using or making something until it completely disappears.
What does "phase out" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
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."
separable
Usage tip
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.
Words that pair with "phase out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
fossil fuels plastic bags technology subsidies chemicals product
How to conjugate "phase out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "phase out" in the wild
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Other ways to say "phase out"
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Keep exploring
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