strike out
To cross out writing, to fail at something, to start out on your own, or to try to hit someone.
Meanings
To draw a line through written text to show it should be deleted.
"Strike out the last sentence — it doesn't fit the paragraph."
(Baseball) To fail to hit the ball three times and be dismissed, or (of a pitcher) to dismiss a batter this way.
"He struck out three times in the game and the crowd groaned each time."
(Informal, chiefly US) To fail completely, especially in a romantic or social context.
"I asked her to dance but struck out completely."
To begin an independent course of action or journey.
"After years working for others, she finally struck out on her own and opened a restaurant."
Has multiple distinct senses across writing, baseball, independent action, and physical attack. The baseball sense (three strikes) has passed into general culture as a metaphor for failure. 'Strike out on your own' is very common in American English.
Commonly used with
Forms
Understand "strike out" better
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Synonyms
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "strike out" on Looplines