flat out
Definition of flat out
1 : in a blunt and direct manner : openly called flat out for revolution — Nat'l Review
2 : at top speed or peak performance the car does 180 m.p.h. flat out
3 usually flat–out play \ˈflat-ˌau̇t\ : absolutely, downright —usually used as an intensive is just flat-out confusing
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Examples of flat out in a Sentence
I told him flat out that I have no intention of marrying him.
We asked for more time but they refused us flat out.
The car does 180 mph flat out.
First Known Use of flat out
1932
FLAT OUT Defined for English Language Learners
flat out
Definition of flat out for English Language Learners
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: in a very clear and direct way
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: at the fastest possible speed
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—used to make a statement more forceful
FLAT OUT Defined for Kids
flat out
Definition of flat out for Students
1 : in a very clear manner I told him flat out to leave.
2 : at top speed We worked flat out to finish.
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