The phrasal verb "wait out" is a commonly used expression that tends to appear more frequently in informal speech, although it can be encountered in formal writing and speech contexts as well. The phrase generally describes a situation where someone chooses to remain inactive or holds back in a safe place until a particular event or period of difficulty has passed. Common contexts include weather-related scenarios, such as waiting out a storm, or metaphorically, such as waiting out a downturn in the market. This phrasal verb conveys a sense of patience and endurance, often implying an expectation that conditions will improve or become more favorable by simply outlasting them. "Wait out" can describe both literal and figurative situations, thus making it versatile across various scenarios where temporary inaction is strategically favorable.
B2
UpperIntermediate
1. To remain in a place or situation until an unwanted or dangerous situation ends.
We decided to wait out the storm before continuing our drive.
It's better to wait out the traffic jam instead of getting stuck in it.