1 B1 neutral
To jump or move suddenly outward from a hidden or enclosed position
"The cat sprang out from behind the sofa and startled everyone."
inseparable
spring out
B1 neutral inseparable intransitive
To move suddenly and quickly outward from a hidden or confined position
In plain English
To jump out suddenly and quickly, especially from somewhere hidden
What does "spring out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 neutral
Of something coiled or compressed, to extend outward rapidly when released
"The spring sprang out when he opened the lid, sending screws everywhere."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To spring (jump with elastic force) outward — fully transparent
Actually means
To jump out suddenly and quickly, especially from somewhere hidden
Usage tip
Conveys the image of a coiled spring releasing — fast, sudden, and slightly elastic. Often used in descriptions of ambushes, surprises, or animals in the wild. Less common in everyday speech than 'jump out' but more vivid. Can also describe things springing out of containers or tight spaces.
Words that pair with "spring out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
shadows hiding bushes box bed ambush
How to conjugate "spring out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
spring out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
springs out
he/she/it
Past simple
springed out
yesterday
Past participle
springed out
have + pp
-ing form
springing out
continuous
Hear "spring out" in the wild
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Other ways to say "spring out"
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