1 B1 neutral
To leave a place suddenly, especially as a sign of anger or disapproval.
"Several audience members walked out during the controversial performance."
inseparable
walk out
B1 neutral inseparable intransitive
To leave a place suddenly, especially as a protest or strike, or to exit during something.
In plain English
Leave a place suddenly — maybe because you're angry, or because workers are going on strike.
What does "walk out" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic neutral
To go on strike; to stop work as a collective protest.
"The factory workers threatened to walk out if their demands were not met."
inseparable
3 B2 idiomatic neutral
To leave negotiations or discussions without reaching an agreement, signalling a breakdown.
"The delegation walked out of the peace talks after the latest proposal was rejected."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To walk and exit outward.
Actually means
Leave a place suddenly — maybe because you're angry, or because workers are going on strike.
Usage tip
Commonly used in industrial/labour relations ('the workers walked out'). Also used for leaving a meeting, film, or speech mid-way through as an act of disapproval.
Words that pair with "walk out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
strike meeting talks negotiations workers audience
How to conjugate "walk out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
walk out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
walks out
he/she/it
Past simple
walked out
yesterday
Past participle
walked out
have + pp
-ing form
walking out
continuous
Hear "walk out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "walk out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "walk out"
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Keep exploring
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