# branch out

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/branch-out
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to start doing something new or different from your usual work or interests. You use this when a person or business grows by trying new things.

For teachers: To extend one's interests, activities, or business into a new area. This phrasal verb is intransitive and typically functions to describe diversification from a core focus.

## Examples

- The small bakery decided to branch out into making wedding cakes.
- After working as a graphic designer for a decade, Mark decided to branch out and start his own marketing consultancy.
- The tech giant's decision to branch out into renewable energy surprised investors, who had previously viewed the firm solely as a software provider.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He wants to branch out his skills." but "He wants to branch out into new skills." — The verb is intransitive and cannot take a direct object; it requires 'into' to link to the new area.

## Usage notes

- Often followed by the preposition 'into' to specify the new field or activity.
- Teaching tip: Use the visual of a tree trunk and its branches to illustrate how a person or company grows outward from a central starting point.

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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.