# flunk out

idiom

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

## Meaning

To fail to finish school, or a given subject, program or course, due to academic shortcomings; i.e., to have too many flunking or failing grades (marks).

## Examples

- If you do not study, you will flunk out of school.
- He spent all his time playing video games instead of attending classes, so he eventually flunked out of university.
- Despite his initial promise, his persistent refusal to engage with the curriculum ensured he would inevitably flunk out of the prestigious program.

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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.