Phrasal verb
spell out
Definition
phrasal verb. to explain something in a very clear and detailed way so there is no confusion.
phrasal verb. to explain something explicitly and in great detail to ensure complete comprehension. Transitive; often used when the speaker feels the listener has failed to grasp a simpler explanation.
Examples
“You need to spell out the rules for the new employees.”
“The contract is quite long, so I asked my lawyer to spell out exactly what I was signing.”
“The manifesto fails to spell out the specific fiscal policies required to achieve such ambitious social reforms.”
Examples
simple
“You need to spell out the rules for the new employees.”
contextual
“The contract is quite long, so I asked my lawyer to spell out exactly what I was signing.”
complex
“The manifesto fails to spell out the specific fiscal policies required to achieve such ambitious social reforms.”
Usage
often used with objects like 'details', 'terms', or 'implications'.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'imply' or 'hint'; 'spell out' is the opposite of being subtle or vague.
Pitfall
He spelled out to me the plan.
He spelled out the plan to me.
the direct object should typically follow the phrasal verb before the indirect object phrase starting with 'to'.
Phrasal verb
Particles
out
Separability
optional
Pattern
spell + (object) + out
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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