# level out

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

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

## Definition

to become even or balanced after being uneven; often used for surfaces or situations that were previously sloped or unbalanced.

For teachers: to become even or flat; typically intransitive, though it can take an object in some contexts (e.g., 'level out the surface'). The phrase is commonly used in both physical and abstract contexts.

## Examples

- The road levels out after the hill.
- After the initial drop, the roller coaster levels out before the next loop.
- The company's profits finally leveled out after a period of fluctuation.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The surface leveled up." but "The surface leveled out." — 'level up' means to increase or improve, while 'level out' means to become even or flat — a common confusion for learners.

## Usage notes

- typically intransitive, though it can take an object in some contexts (e.g., 'level out the surface').
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'even out' (a near-synonym but slightly more common in American English) and 'stabilize' (more formal).

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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.