ENGLISH
REFERENCE

map out

phrasal verb.
Definition

phrasal verb. to plan something in detail so you know exactly what to do.

phrasal verb. to plan or delineate a route, arrangement, or course of action in a systematic and detailed manner. Transitive; often used for abstract planning rather than physical cartography.


SIMPLE

We need to map out our strategy for the next year.

CONTEXTUAL

Before starting the project, the team met to map out the key milestones and deadlines.

COMPLEX

The urban planners spent months mapping out the infrastructure requirements for the proposed residential district to ensure long-term sustainability.

Particles
out
Separability
optional
Pattern
map + (object) + out + (object)
Usage

The object can be placed between 'map' and 'out' or after the particle.

Teaching tip

Use the physical metaphor of a map to help students visualize the act of organizing a complex future task into clear, visible steps.

Last updated August 2, 2026