# grow out

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

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

## Definition

to let your hair or nails get longer by not cutting them.

For teachers: to allow hair, nails, or a physical feature to reach a desired length by abstaining from trimming or cutting; often used when transitioning between styles.

## Examples

- I am trying to grow out my hair for the wedding.
- After years of having a short buzz cut, he decided to grow out his hair to see how it looked wavy.
- The stylist suggested that she grow out her layers for several months before attempting the blunt bob she originally requested.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I want to grow my hair out of." but "I want to grow my hair out." — adding 'of' changes the meaning to 'becoming too large for something' or 'developing from something'.

## Usage notes

- usually takes hair, nails, or a specific hairstyle as the object.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'grow out of' (to become too big for clothes), which is a three-part phrasal verb with a completely different meaning.

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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.