English Reference

Phrasal verb

game out

Definition

phrasal verb. to think about all the possible results of a plan or situation before it happens. You use this when you want to be ready for any surprise.

phrasal verb. to simulate or analyze various potential scenarios and their consequences to determine the best course of action. Transitive and often used in strategic or political contexts.

Examples

“Let's game out what happens if we lose the contract.”

“The legal team spent the afternoon gaming out every possible question the judge might ask during the trial.”

“Economists are currently trying to game out the long-term effects of the new trade policy on global supply chains.”

Examples

simple

“Let's game out what happens if we lose the contract.”

contextual

“The legal team spent the afternoon gaming out every possible question the judge might ask during the trial.”

complex

“Economists are currently trying to game out the long-term effects of the new trade policy on global supply chains.”

Usage

Often takes objects like 'scenarios', 'possibilities', or 'outcomes'.

Teaching tip

This phrase comes from the idea of playing a strategy game to see who wins; it helps students understand the 'simulation' aspect of the meaning.

Phrasal verb

Particles

out

Separability

optional

Pattern

game + out + object

Synonyms

simulatemodelthink throughmap out

Antonyms

improvisewing it

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference