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pop out — 2 meanings

One phrase, 2 different jobs. Tap a meaning to jump to it — then lock each one in by saying it out loud.

phrasal verb2 meanings
  1. 1 go out briefly (for food)to leave somewhere for a short time, often to get food or do a quick errand
  2. 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

go out briefly (for food)

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

leave for a short time

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.

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