ENGLISH
REFERENCE

throw out

idiom
Meaning

To discard; to dispense with something; to throw away.

Origin

disputed origin

From throw + out.

Examples
SIMPLE

I need to throw out these old newspapers.

CONTEXTUAL

After cleaning the attic, we decided to throw out everything we had not used in years.

COMPLEX

The committee chose to throw out the proposal, citing a lack of evidence to support the suggested changes.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    lock someone up and throw away the key

    To lock someone up in prison indefinitely.

  2. 02

    stone's throw

    A short distance, roughly equivalent to how far a person can throw a stone.

  3. 03

    throw a bone to

    To provide support or assistance to, especially in one particular way or to a limited extent; to make a concession to.

  4. 04

    throw a fit

    To become angry, enraged, or upset; to act or react with an outburst, as by shouting, swearing, etc.

  5. 05

    throw a kiss

    To kiss one's hand, then make a gesture as if one was throwing the kiss in a direction towards the recipient.

  6. 06

    throw a monkey wrench in the works

    Synonym of throw a spanner in the works.

  7. 07

    throw a monkey wrench into the works

    Synonym of throw a spanner into the works.

  8. 08

    throw a spanner in the works

    To introduce a problem, dilemma or obstacle, something unexpected or troublesome.

Last updated April 17, 2026