English Reference

Phrasal verb

start out

Definition

phrasal verb. to begin a journey or a new part of your life, like a career or a business.

phrasal verb. to begin a life, career, or specific venture in a particular way or with a specific intention. Often used to describe the initial state or status of a person or entity before subsequent development.

Examples

“She started out as a waitress before becoming a famous actress.”

“Many successful tech companies started out in small garages with very little money.”

“Although the firm started out as a small local consultancy, it eventually expanded into a multinational corporation with offices in twenty countries.”

Examples

simple

“She started out as a waitress before becoming a famous actress.”

contextual

“Many successful tech companies started out in small garages with very little money.”

complex

“Although the firm started out as a small local consultancy, it eventually expanded into a multinational corporation with offices in twenty countries.”

Usage

often followed by 'as' to describe a role or 'with' to describe initial resources.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'start' — 'start out' emphasizes the beginning of a long-term process or journey rather than a single action.

Phrasal verb

Particles

out

Separability

inseparable

Pattern

start + out (+ as/with + object)

Synonyms

begincommenceset outoriginate

Antonyms

finishend upconclude

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

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.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL 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: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784EikenEikenTest in Practical English ProficiencyThe English proficiency test from the Eiken Foundation of Japan, widely taken by Japanese students. Grades run from 5 to 1, with Pre-1 and Pre-2 between them.Grade 2
Level
B1 · Intermediate
Updated

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