Phrasal verb
buff out
Definition
phrasal verb. to remove a scratch or mark from a surface by rubbing it. You use this when you want to make something smooth and shiny again.
phrasal verb. to remove surface imperfections through polishing or abrasion. This transitive phrasal verb is often used in automotive or craft contexts and can be applied metaphorically to refining a piece of work.
Examples
“You can buff out that small scratch on your car.”
“The mechanic said he could buff out the scuff marks on the door in just a few minutes.”
“While the initial draft of the proposal was ambitious, the team spent the weekend trying to buff out the logical inconsistencies in the budget section.”
Examples
simple
“You can buff out that small scratch on your car.”
contextual
“The mechanic said he could buff out the scuff marks on the door in just a few minutes.”
complex
“While the initial draft of the proposal was ambitious, the team spent the weekend trying to buff out the logical inconsistencies in the budget section.”
Usage
This verb is optionally separable, meaning the object can sit between 'buff' and 'out' or follow the particle.
Teaching tip
Contrast with 'sand down', which is more aggressive; 'buff out' implies a gentle, finishing process to restore a surface.
Pitfall
I need to buff out of the mark.
I need to buff out the mark.
The particle 'out' is part of the phrasal verb and does not require the preposition 'of' before the object.
Phrasal verb
Particles
out
Separability
optional
Pattern
buff + out + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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