test out

test out

1. To use something for an initial period as a test of how (or if) it works. A noun or pronoun can be used between "test" and "out." I should have tested out the car before I took it off the lot, because the thing started falling apart just one day after buying it. They let me take the computer home to test it out before I have to pay for it.

2. To give something to someone as a test in order to get their feedback on it. A noun or pronoun can be used between "test" and "out"; often followed by "on (someone)." These cookies should be a big hit at the bake sale—I tested them out on my kids, and they gobbled them right up. Test out your proposal on me first, and I'll let you know if it still needs any work.

3. To become eligible to skip some required or prerequisite academic course by achieving a certain score on a placement test. I tested out of a number of entry-level courses for my degree, so I was able to finish college a year early. My language credits didn't transfer to my new college, but thankfully I was able to test out.

See also: out, test

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

test something out

to try something out; to test something to see if it works. I can't wait to test my new laptop out. I will test out the new brakes on the car.

See also: out, test

test out (of something)

to score high enough on a placement test that one does not need to take a particular course. I tested out of calculus. I don't know enough Spanish to test out.

See also: out, test

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

test out

v.

1. To test or use something experimentally: Test out your new sleeping bag at home before taking it on a camping trip. I tested my speech out on my friends before delivering it at the meeting.

2. To qualify for a waiver of a requirement or prerequisite by taking and passing a test: I tested out of the beginning level of Spanish. You don't have to take geography because you tested out.

See also: out, test

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.