ENGLISH
REFERENCE

give out

idiom
Meaning

To complain, sulk, chastise.


Origin

disputed origin

Cognate with German ausgeben (“spend, pay, output”).

Examples
SIMPLE

My teacher gave out because I forgot my homework again.

CONTEXTUAL

The manager gave out to the team for missing the deadline, even though the delay was not their fault.

COMPLEX

Despite his efforts to remain composed, the supervisor gave out at length regarding the persistent lack of discipline displayed by the junior staff.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    don't give up your day job

    Somewhat sarcastic but usually good-natured advice used to criticise a person's degree of talent (especially in music or other performing arts), implying that they are unlikely to be successful.

  2. 02

    give a damn

    To be concerned about, have an interest in, to care (about something).

  3. 03

    give a fuck

    To care; to give a shit.

  4. 04

    give a good account of oneself

    To act in a creditable manner.

  5. 05

    give a hang

    give a hoot; give a damn (to care about; to place value on something)

  6. 06

    give a hoot

    To care about; to place value on something.

  7. 07

    give a light

    To care.

  8. 08

    give a monkey's

    To care; to have an interest or concern.

Last updated April 17, 2026