# come out with

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/come-out-with
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to say something suddenly or unexpectedly, often something surprising or rude.

For teachers: to utter or express something, typically in an abrupt, unexpected, or blunt manner; often used when the statement is surprising or socially awkward.

## Examples

- He suddenly came out with a very strange question.
- During the quiet dinner, she came out with the news that she was moving to Japan.
- The witness unexpectedly came out with a confession that completely changed the direction of the trial.

## Pitfalls

- Not "She came out with that she was tired." but "She came out with the news that she was tired." — this phrase requires a noun object, not a 'that' clause directly after 'with'.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by a noun phrase representing the words spoken.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'say' or 'tell'; 'come out with' emphasizes the suddenness or the surprising nature of the remark.

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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.