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suss out

B2 informal separable transitive
In simple words

To find out what someone or something is really like by watching and thinking carefully.

Literal meaning: To suspect something out (i.e., investigate one's suspicions).

Meanings

1 B2 idiomatic informal

To discover the truth about a situation, plan, or problem, especially through careful investigation or reasoning.

"It took her a while to suss out why the machine kept breaking down, but eventually she found a loose wire."

Grammar: separable
2 B2 idiomatic informal

To assess and understand a person's character, intentions, or motives through observation.

"I hadn't sussed him out yet — I couldn't tell whether he was genuinely friendly or just after something."

Grammar: separable
3 B2 idiomatic informal

To explore or examine a place, option, or opportunity to see if it is suitable.

"We went down to the venue early to suss it out before booking it for the party."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

Primarily British and Australian English; less common in American English. Derived from 'suspect' or 'suspicion.' Can refer to figuring out a person's character, a hidden situation, or a plan. Common in both spoken and written informal English.

Commonly used with

situation person problem deal plan motives

Forms

Base
suss out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
susses out
he/she/it
Past simple
sussed out
yesterday
Past participle
sussed out
have + pp
-ing form
sussing out
continuous

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