1 B2 idiomatic informal
To suddenly leave a partner or family member, abandoning the relationship.
"His father walked out on the family when he was only three years old."
inseparable
walk out on
B2 informal inseparable transitive
To abandon a person, relationship, or responsibility suddenly and without warning.
In plain English
Leave someone behind and not come back — like a parent who leaves their family.
What does "walk out on" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic neutral
To abandon a responsibility, commitment, or obligation.
"You can't just walk out on your contract — there will be serious consequences."
inseparable
Usage tip
Carries a strong sense of betrayal and irresponsibility. Most often used in the context of personal relationships (a partner, family) or obligations (a job, a commitment).
Words that pair with "walk out on"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
partner family children wife husband job commitment
How to conjugate "walk out on"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
walk out on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
walks out on
he/she/it
Past simple
walked out on
yesterday
Past participle
walked out on
have + pp
-ing form
walking out on
continuous
Hear "walk out on" in the wild
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Other ways to say "walk out on"
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