Which sentence uses 'come across' correctly?

I came across an old photo while cleaning the attic

I came across the street to meet you

I came across an old photo while cleaning the attic

The bridge came across the river

Which sentence uses 'come across' correctly?

She comes across as very confident in interviews

He came across the finish line first

Which sentence uses 'come by' correctly?

Good jobs are hard to come by these days

The bus will come by this route

Good jobs are hard to come by these days

I come by the office every morning at 8

Which sentence uses 'come by' correctly?

Can you come by my house later for coffee?

The train came by the station too fast

She comes by the grocery store home

Which sentence uses 'come out' correctly?

The new iPhone will come out next month

I need to come out from the house now

The new iPhone will come out next month

Which sentence uses 'come out' correctly?

The truth finally came out after the investigation

The students came out to the classroom

Understanding the Phrasal Verb 'Spell Out'

📖 Definition

To 'spell out' means to explain something in detail and make it clear, often breaking down complex information into understandable parts for clarity.

Examples in context

The doctor spelled out the treatment options to ensure we understood our choices.
She didn't just hint at the issue; she spelled it out for everyone.
The manual spells out all the steps needed to assemble the furniture.

📖 Definition

To 'spell out' means to explain something in detail and make it clear, often breaking down complex information into understandable parts for clarity.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable

Yes

The verb and the particle can be separated by the object.

Neutral

Used in various contexts without being overly formal or casual.

Transitive

Yes

Requires an object to convey a complete idea.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense	Form	Example
Present Simple	spell out	She will spell out the instructions for the project.
Past Simple	spelled out	The teacher spelled out the rules very clearly yesterday.
Present Continuous	spelling out	He is spelling out the details right now.
Present Perfect	have spelled out	We have spelled out everything in the report.

💡 When to Use

clarifying instructions

Use when needing to make instructions clearer by explaining each step in detail, often for better understanding.

Example: "I will spell out the guidelines for tomorrow's test."

explaining a complex topic

Employ this phrase when breaking down complicated subjects to ensure comprehension among all listeners or readers.

Example: "The lecturer spelled out the core concepts of quantum physics."

emphasizing importance

Utilize when highlighting significant aspects of a message, ensuring the audience understands crucial points.

Example: "The CEO spelled out the future vision of the company."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

using intransitively

❌ Wrong: She will spell out.

✅ Correct: She will spell out the reasons for her decision.

💡 Tip: Always specify what is being spelled out.

wrong particle

❌ Wrong: He spelled it under.

✅ Correct: He spelled it out.

💡 Tip: Remember to use 'out' for this phrasal verb.

incorrect separation

❌ Wrong: Spell the outcome out clearly.

✅ Correct: Spell out the outcome clearly.

💡 Tip: Keep 'spell out' together for clarity.

Practice

SPELL OUT - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

1
Listen to example

The doctor spelled out the treatment options to ensure we understood our choices.
How National Parks Came to Be
2
Listen to example

She didn't just hint at the issue; she spelled it out for everyone.
How to Become a Hiker
3
Listen to example

The manual spells out all the steps needed to assemble the furniture.
Bringing Animals Back to Life

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

clarify explain

Antonyms

confuse

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"The teacher had to ___ the assignment instructions for the new students."

write down

spell out

brush off

pass up

"Wisdom often requires patience; the universe might not always spell out its plans, but truths are revealed in time."

In Context

During World War II, as tensions rose across Europe, British Prime Minister Winston Churchill took decisive steps to prepare the nation for the conflict ahead. Despite initial hesitation from some politicians and civilians, Churchill knew he had to spell out the gravity of the situation. In a stirring address to the nation on October 1, 1939, he clearly spelled out the ominous threat posed by Nazi Germany and the necessity for vigilance and action. His words resonated with urgency as he spelled out the need for unity and sacrifice. The public's response was mixed at first, but over time, Churchill’s persistent efforts to spell out the perils and promise of the coming struggle proved crucial. His speeches, full of clear and precise language, helped fortify the British spirit and prepare the nation for war. As the tide turned and Britain stood resilient, his leadership was vindicated. Churchill’s ability to spell out his vision and rallying calls contributed significantly to the eventual Allied victory, leaving behind a legacy of forthright communication and leadership in times of crisis.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Spell Out

What is the origin of spell out?

The phrase 'spell out' originates from the 18th century when it was common to spell words letter by letter aloud for clarity and understanding.

Can spell out be used in formal and informal contexts?

Yes, 'spell out' is suitable in both formal and informal contexts, making it versatile for academic, professional, and casual settings.

What is the difference between spell out and clarify?

'Spell out' involves explicitly detailing something, while 'clarify' generally means making something less confusing without necessarily detailing every aspect.

Browse All National Parks Phrasal Verbs

About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey

📖 Definition

📖 Definition

📝 Grammar Info

📊 Conjugation Table

💡 When to Use

⚠️ Common Mistakes

SPELL OUT - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Quick Check

In Context

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Spell Out

Related Phrasal Verbs

Alessandra Nóbrega