GROW OUT OF

📖 Definition

To ‘grow out of’ means to become too mature for a certain habit, situation, or object, often in a gradual process over time.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
No
The object or pronoun cannot come between 'grow' and 'out of'.
Register
Neutral
Can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
Requires an object, like a habit or situation.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple grow out of Teenagers often grow out of their childhood interests.
Past Simple grew out of She grew out of her fear of dogs over time.
Present Continuous growing out of He is growing out of his love for certain toys.
Present Perfect have grown out of They have grown out of the need for supervision.

💡 When to Use

Outgrowing childhood habits
Use when describing someone abandoning habits they held during childhood as they mature.
Example: “She grew out of playing with dolls by the age of ten.”
Leaving behind outdated styles
Appropriate for discussing how someone has moved past outdated fashion or trends.
Example: “He has grown out of wearing bright, flashy clothes.”
Losing old fears
Use to describe overcoming fears or phobias as someone matures.
Example: “I hope to grow out of my fear of heights someday.”

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Using it as separable
❌ Wrong: He grew out his toys of.
✅ Correct: He grew out of his toys.
💡 Tip: Remember, don't separate 'grow' and 'out of'.
Omitting 'out of'
❌ Wrong: She grew her old habits.
✅ Correct: She grew out of her old habits.
💡 Tip: Always include 'out of' after 'grow'.
Using with intransitive verbs
❌ Wrong: He grows rapidly.
✅ Correct: He grows out of his comfort zone.
💡 Tip: Ensure an object follows 'grow out of'.
Practice

GROW OUT OF – IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

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

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

outgrow move beyond

Antonyms

cling to

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

“Children often ____ their need for bedtime stories.”

grow up
grow out of
grow with
grow in

Frequently Asked Questions about Grow Out Of

What is the origin of grow out of?

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The phrase 'grow out of' likely originates from the physical process of outgrowing clothes, extending metaphorically to behaviors and interests.

Can grow out of be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
Yes, 'grow out of' is versatile, suitable for both formal academic writing and everyday casual conversations about personal development.

What is the difference between grow out of and outgrow?

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'Grow out of' often suggests a process of change or development, while 'outgrow' typically refers directly to finishing or evolving beyond something.
Alessandra Nóbrega
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



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