The phrasal verb 'head out' is predominantly used in informal contexts, typically when someone is leaving a location with the intention of going somewhere else. It is frequently employed in everyday conversation, often in casual or social settings, such as when a person is leaving home, work, or a gathering. Although 'head out' might occasionally feature in formal writing or speech, particularly to add a conversational tone, it is largely absent in strict formal contexts. The term is versatile and can be used with or without an object (e.g., 'Let's head out' or 'I'm heading out to the store'). This phrasal verb conveys an action of departure, often implying a planned or upcoming journey rather than an impromptu one. Its widespread use in casual American English reflects its simplicity and clarity in directing departure from one place to another.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To leave a place or go out, especially to start a journey.
We should head out now to avoid traffic.
Let's head out for dinner around 7 PM.
2. To move away from a particular area or region, often for travel or exploration.
After breakfast, we'll head out to explore the mountains.
The team plans to head out early to survey the site.