1 B2 idiomatic informal
To want to leave or withdraw from a situation, relationship, or commitment.
"After three unhappy years at the company, she wanted out."
inseparable
want out
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
To want to leave a situation, relationship, deal, or group.
In plain English
Not want to be part of something anymore and wish you could leave.
What does "want out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 A2 informal
(Literally) For a person or animal to want to exit a place.
"The dog is barking — he wants out."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To want to be outside (something).
Actually means
Not want to be part of something anymore and wish you could leave.
Usage tip
The direct opposite of 'want in'. Common in informal American and British English. Used in personal relationships, business contexts, and any situation where someone feels trapped or dissatisfied.
Words that pair with "want out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
relationship deal contract situation life business
How to conjugate "want out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
want out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
wants out
he/she/it
Past simple
wanted out
yesterday
Past participle
wanted out
have + pp
-ing form
wanting out
continuous
Hear "want out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "want out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "want out"
Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.
be done with want to exit want to get out want to leave want to quit
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