# drop out

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/drop-out
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To leave (school, a race, etc.) prematurely and voluntarily.

## Examples

- He decided to drop out of university after his first year.
- The pressure became too much, so she chose to drop out of the marathon before reaching the halfway point.
- Despite his academic potential, he felt compelled to drop out of the prestigious program to pursue a career that aligned more closely with his personal values.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.