# fish out

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

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

## Definition

to pull something out of a bag, pocket, or liquid, usually after searching for it. You use this when you find something small among many other things.

For teachers: To extract an object from a container, pocket, or liquid, typically involving a degree of searching or difficulty. Transitive; often implies the object was obscured or submerged.

## Examples

- She fished out her keys from the bottom of her bag.
- After searching for several minutes, he finally fished out the lost ring from the soapy dishwater.
- The investigator reached into the murky depths of the evidence locker and fished out a dusty, unlabeled cassette tape.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He fished his keys from the bag." but "He fished out his keys from the bag." — The particle 'out' is required to complete the phrasal verb's specific meaning of extraction after searching.

## Usage notes

- This verb is transitive and allows the object to be placed either after the particle or between the verb and the particle.
- Teaching tip: Contrast with 'pull out'; 'fish out' implies a search or that the item was hidden among others.

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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.