stand out

stand out

1. To protrude from something; to project outward from something. I don't know why they included a balcony that stands out so far from the actual building. He chose a strong branch standing out from the tree to hang the swing from.

2. To be especially noticeable, conspicuous, or prominent, especially in comparison to someone or something else. I generally wear neutral clothing so that I don't stand out. Her haircut really makes her stand out from the rest of her friends. The picture's red frame makes it stand out against the green wall.

See also: out, stand

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

stand out (from something)

to protrude from something. One very straight branch in particular stood out from the tree and looked suitable for a post. The branch stood out and made a perfect place to hang my shirt while I worked.

See also: out, stand

stand out

(against someone or something) to be prominent or conspicuous against a background of someone or something. Your red coat really stands out against all those dull brown ones. With that deep tan, you really stand out against the others.

See also: out, stand

stand out

(from someone or something) to be prominent when compared to someone or something. As a programmer, she stands out from all the others. This entry stands out from all the rest in this show.

See also: out, stand

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.

stand out

1. Protrude, project, as in Those reliefs stand out from the building walls. [First half of 1500s]

2. Be conspicuous, distinctive, or prominent, as in He's so tall that he always stands out in a crowd. [Mid-1800s]

3. Refuse to comply, remain opposed, as in The one juror is standing out against a guilty verdict. [Late 1500s]

See also: out, stand

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

stand out

v.

1. To be obvious, conspicuous, or prominent: The moon stands out among the stars. The champion athletes stand out among their peers.

2. To protrude; project: The gargoyle stands out from the side of the building.

3. To maintain a course away from shore. Used of a ship or other vessel: The ship stood out to sea.

4. stand out against To refuse compliance with or maintain opposition to someone or something: They are standing out against the verdict.

See also: out, stand

The American Heritage® Dictionary of Phrasal Verbs. Copyright © 2005 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.