1 B2 neutral
To plan something in a systematic way, identifying each stage or element.
"She spent the weekend plotting out the structure of her new novel."
separable
plot out
B2 neutral separable transitive
To plan or chart something in detail, marking out each stage or element systematically.
In plain English
To carefully plan something step by step, or to draw a map or route.
What does "plot out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 neutral
To mark out a route, course, or area on a map or chart.
"The navigator plotted out a safe course through the reef."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To mark points or coordinates on a chart or map.
Actually means
To carefully plan something step by step, or to draw a map or route.
Usage tip
Used in writing ('plot out a novel'), project management ('plot out a schedule'), and navigation ('plot out a route'). Slightly more deliberate and visual in implication than 'plan out.'
Words that pair with "plot out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
route story novel strategy course schedule
How to conjugate "plot out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
plot out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
plots out
he/she/it
Past simple
ploted out
yesterday
Past participle
ploted out
have + pp
-ing form
ploting out
continuous
Hear "plot out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "plot out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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