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sputter out

B2 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words

To slowly stop working in a noisy, uneven way, like an engine that keeps cutting out

Literal meaning: To sputter means to make a series of soft explosive sounds; 'out' signals cessation — literally the sound of a flame or engine making irregular noises before dying

Meanings

1 B1 neutral

For an engine, flame, or machine to stop working in an uneven, intermittent way

"The old motorbike sputtered out halfway up the hill and refused to start again."

Grammar: inseparable
2 B2 idiomatic neutral

For something abstract such as a plan, effort, or movement to gradually lose momentum and come to an unsuccessful end

"The peace talks sputtered out after neither side could agree on the key terms."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Derives from the sound of an engine or flame struggling and making intermittent noises before stopping. Used both literally (engines, flames) and figuratively (projects, conversations, movements). The figurative sense is common in journalism and writing.

Commonly used with

engine flame candle campaign economy conversation negotiations

Forms

Base
sputter out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
sputters out
he/she/it
Past simple
sputtered out
yesterday
Past participle
sputtered out
have + pp
-ing form
sputtering out
continuous

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Synonyms

fizzle out peter out die out trail off give out flame out

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