Take out: meaning, definitions and examples

Use this when you need to physically move something from one location to another or when referring to food that is purchased to be eaten elsewhere.

• I need to take out the trash.
• Let's take out some pizza for dinner.

This is a general term for taking something away or off from a position occupied. It can be used in many contexts, both physical and abstract.

• Please remove your shoes before entering the house.
• We need to remove the old software before installing the new version.

Use this term when you need to take something out with some effort or specialized tools. It often implies careful removal from a larger whole.

• The dentist needs to extract that tooth.
• They managed to extract valuable information from the data.

This phrase is used when you are physically drawing something out of a container or place using force or effort. It can also refer to withdrawing from an activity.

• He had to pull out a splinter from his finger.
• The team decided to pull out of the competition.

This word is appropriate when you mean to completely get rid of something, often in a context where the thing being removed is undesirable or harmful. It can be used in both literal and figurative senses.

• They need to eliminate all sources of pollution.
• We must eliminate any errors in the report.

Use this when you need to remove something from a place, container, or situation.

• Please take out the trash.
• He took out his wallet to pay for the meal.

Apply this when referring to removing something with effort or using a particular method, often from a complex situation. This word can sometimes carry a slightly negative connotation.

• The dentist had to extract the tooth.
• They managed to extract the gemstone from the rock.

Utilize this in more formal or academic situations when something is developed or obtained from a source.

• The researchers derived their results from extensive experiments.
• Many English words are derived from Latin.

Choose this in formal contexts where something is acquired, usually through effort or as a result of a process.

• She obtained her degree last year.
• They obtained permission to build the house.

Think of this for collecting items, information, or people together, often gradually and systematically.

• She gathered flowers from the garden.
• He gathered all the necessary materials for the project.