Word: Chicken Out
Definition:
"Chicken out" is a phrasal verb that means to decide not to do something because you are scared or nervous. When someone "chickens out," they back away from a situation or obligation, usually at the last minute.
Usage Instructions:
- Use "chicken out" when you want to describe someone who is afraid to do something they initially planned to do. - It is often used in informal conversations.
Example Sentence:
- "I wanted to go skydiving, but I chickened out at the last minute."
Advanced Usage:
- You can use "chicken out" in both personal and professional contexts. For example: - Personal: "She was going to confront her teacher about the grade, but she chickened out." - Professional: "The team was excited about the presentation, but one member chickened out and didn't show up."
Word Variants:
There aren't direct variants of "chicken out," but you could use different forms: - "Chickened out" (past tense): "He chickened out of the race." - "Chickening out" (present participle): "She is chickening out of the meeting."
Different Meanings:
"Chicken out" specifically refers to avoiding an action due to fear. It does not have other meanings beyond this context.
Synonyms:
- Back out - Withdraw - Bail out - Flake out
Idioms and Related Phrasal Verbs:
- "Bail out" - This can mean to leave a situation or avoid responsibility, similar to "chicken out." - "Back down" - This means to withdraw from a confrontation or challenge, often due to fear or pressure.
Summary:
"Chicken out" is a casual way to say someone was too scared to follow through with something they planned.