The phrasal verb "find out" is prevalent in both formal and informal contexts, though it is especially common in conversational and informal writing. It means to discover or learn something, usually involving uncovering information that was previously unknown or hidden. In a formal setting, especially in written form, more direct or single-word alternatives like "discover" or "ascertain" might be preferred. However, "find out" still maintains a steady usage due to its straightforwardness and familiarity, making it suitable for a wide range of scenarios from casual inquiries to investigative processes. It is often used in questions (e.g., "Did you find out what happened?") or imperative statements where obtaining information is crucial (e.g., "Find out if the meeting is still on."). Overall, its versatility and clarity make it a staple in English communication.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To discover a fact or piece of information that was previously unknown.
I need to find out what time the meeting starts.
The detective tried to find out who committed the crime.
2. To learn something by making an effort to discover it.
She found out the truth about her past.
You can use the internet to find out more information about the topic.
3. To detect or realize something that was hidden or not obvious.
He found out that she was not telling the truth.
They found out about the surprise party because someone spilled the beans.
