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1
go out briefly (for food)to leave somewhere for a short time, often to get food or do a quick errand
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2
leave for a short timeto go out somewhere for a short time and come back soon
All meanings, in depth
Ordered by how often you'll hear each one — the meaning tells you what it does, the examples and tips show it in use.
1
B1pop out (for sthspokeninformalMost common
to leave somewhere for a short time, often to get food or do a quick errand
I'm just going to pop out for a sandwich — do you want anything?
She popped out to grab a coffee and was back in five minutes.
Very British; 'pop' adds the sense of quick and casual.
2
B1pop out (to placespokeninformal
to go out somewhere for a short time and come back soon
I'm just going to pop out for some milk, back in five.
She's popped out to the shop, can I take a message?
Common mistake
Don't use it for a long absence — 'pop out' is always brief.
Means a quick trip, not leaving for good. Brits say it constantly.
Turn this into speaking practice
Practise one meaning at a time and save the ones you mix up for review.