"Blow out" is a phrasal verb that sees more frequent use in informal contexts rather than formal ones. It carries several meanings depending on the context. Primarily, it can refer to extinguishing a flame or light, such as candles on a birthday cake. In sports, "blow out" is used to describe a lopsided victory, where one team or individual defeats another by a large margin. Additionally, it can mean to damage something by causing it to explode, such as a tire "blowing out" while driving. The flexibility in its meaning makes "blow out" versatile, and it's commonly heard in everyday conversations. Its informal nature and usage in various contexts—celebratory, competitive, or technical—illustrate its adaptability in English vernacular.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To extinguish a flame, especially by blowing air onto it.
Make a wish and blow out the candles on your birthday cake.
She blew out the match before tossing it in the trash.
2. To burst or cause something to burst from internal pressure, often resulting in damage.
One of the car's tires blew out on the highway.
The speaker cone blew out during the loud concert.