The phrasal verb "sit out" is predominantly used in informal speech. It typically means to not participate in an activity, event, or round, often by choice. Usage can be in contexts like sports, where a player might "sit out" a game or practice to rest or due to injury, or in social settings, where someone might choose to "sit out" a dance or an argument to avoid involvement. The term suggests an element of voluntary non-participation or a temporary pause from active engagement. It is distinct from "sitting back," which implies a more relaxed stance rather than the active decision involved in "sitting out." In more formal contexts, alternatives like "abstain from" or "decline to participate in" may be preferred.
B1
Intermediate
1. To not participate in an activity or event, often to rest or because of personal choice.
She decided to sit out the last dance because she was feeling tired.
He had to sit out the game due to his injury.
2. To remain inactive in a particular situation from which one might otherwise be expected to participate.
During the debate, he chose to sit out and let others voice their opinions.
Given the political tension, she decided to sit out this election.