# lock out

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

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

## Definition

to prevent someone from entering a place by locking the door. You use this when you forget your keys and cannot get back inside.

For teachers: To prevent access to a building, room, or system by securing a lock. The verb is transitive and frequently appears in reflexive constructions or in the context of labor disputes.

## Examples

- He often locks himself out of his apartment.
- If you lose your key card, the security system will lock you out of the office after three failed attempts.
- During the bitter industrial dispute, the company chose to lock out its employees rather than negotiate with the union representatives.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I locked out of my house." but "I locked myself out of my house." — The verb requires a reflexive pronoun like 'myself' when you are the person unable to enter.

## Usage notes

- Usually takes an object and is often followed by the preposition 'of'.
- Teaching tip: Explain the difference between the physical act of locking a door and the industrial action sense where an employer prevents workers from entering.

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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.