test out

To try something to see whether it works well or gives the expected results.

• Let’s test out this camera.
• They tested out a new method for cleaning the water.
• Have you tested the software out yet?

How to use it: test something out (We tested the new camera out during our holiday.)

Similar words: try out, test, check

Common phrases: test out something, test out a theory

To try an unfamiliar activity or experience, often somewhere safe or comfortable.

• You can test out different hobbies.
• She tested out acting at a friendly local workshop.
• This quiet pool lets children test out swimming without pressure.

How to use it: test something out (The workshop lets beginners test their new skills out safely.)

Similar words: try out, explore, experiment with

Common phrases: test out something, test out new skills

To pass an exam showing you already know enough to skip a course.

• You can test out of algebra.
• He tested out of two required courses last year.
• Can I test out of this class with a placement exam?

How to use it: test out of something (She tested out of the introductory Spanish course.)

Similar words: place out of

Common phrases: test out of something, test out of algebra

To see how someone reacts before deciding what to say or do next.

• We should test out the audience.
• She tested her parents out on the idea of moving abroad.
• Have you tested him out to see whether he would help?

How to use it: test someone out on something (I tested him out on the idea before raising it at the meeting.)

Similar words: sound out, feel out

Common phrases: test out someone, test out the audience

To give a particular result when checked in a test.

• The brakes test out fine.
• Every water sample tested out within the safe range.
• Did the new parts test out well?

How to use it: test out + result (The engine tested out fine after the repair.)

Similar words: check out

Common phrases: test out well, test out fine

A short trial to find out how something works or whether it is useful.

• Let’s give it a test out.
• We arranged a test out of the new equipment.
• The weekend test out showed that the system worked well.

Similar words: trial, test, tryout

Common phrases: a test out, quick test out

An exam that lets you skip a course if you pass.

• The test out is tomorrow.
• She passed the algebra test out and skipped the course.
• Does this department offer a test out for beginners’ French?

How to use it: a test out for something (The college offers a test out for basic computing.)

Similar words: placement test, exemption exam

Common phrases: a test out, algebra test out