# empty out

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

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

## Definition

to remove everything from inside a container or a space so that it is completely empty.

For teachers: to exhaust the contents of a container or space; often implies a thorough or systematic removal of all items within.

## Examples

- Please empty out your pockets before you wash your jeans.
- We need to empty out the spare room before the new furniture arrives tomorrow.
- The investigators proceeded to empty out the filing cabinets, searching for any evidence that might link the suspect to the crime.

## Pitfalls

- Not "Empty out it." but "Empty it out." — when using a pronoun like 'it' or 'them', it must go between the verb and the particle 'out'.

## Usage notes

- often used with containers like bags, drawers, or rooms; the object can come before or after 'out'.
- Teaching tip: contrast with the simple verb 'empty'; 'empty out' often suggests a more deliberate or complete action of removing items one by one.

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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.