Phrasal verb
phase out
Definition
phrasal verb. to stop using or doing something slowly, in stages, rather than all at once. You use this when a company or government replaces an old product or rule with a new one over time.
phrasal verb. to gradually withdraw something from use or existence through a series of planned stages. Transitive; frequently employed in the passive voice within administrative, industrial, or legislative contexts.
Examples
“The company will phase out plastic bags by next year.”
“After the new software was released, the IT department began to phase out the older version to ensure a smooth transition for all employees.”
“Environmental regulations mandate that the automotive industry phase out internal combustion engines in favor of electric alternatives over the next two decades to meet carbon neutrality targets.”
Examples
simple
“The company will phase out plastic bags by next year.”
contextual
“After the new software was released, the IT department began to phase out the older version to ensure a smooth transition for all employees.”
complex
“Environmental regulations mandate that the automotive industry phase out internal combustion engines in favor of electric alternatives over the next two decades to meet carbon neutrality targets.”
Usage
often used in the passive voice when the focus is on the thing being removed.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'discontinue' to highlight the deliberate, step-by-step nature of the process; it is the direct antonym of 'phase in'.
Pitfall
They decided to phase the old system.
They decided to phase out the old system.
the particle 'out' is essential to convey the meaning of gradual removal; 'phase' alone usually refers to a stage of development.
Phrasal verb
Particles
out
Separability
optional
Pattern
phase + out + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- 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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