way out

/ˈweɪ aʊt/

an escape route or solution

In case of fire, follow the emergency way out.

This phrase refers to a designated exit path for safety.

general

a route or method of escape from a confined or dangerous place

The only way out of the maze was to retrace their steps.

This means the only solution was to go back the way they came.

Often used literally for physical exits or metaphorically for solutions.

figurative

a solution or escape from a difficult situation

After months of stress, he finally found a way out of his financial troubles.

This means he discovered a solution to his money problems.

Common in informal and metaphorical contexts.

Collocations

find a way outdiscover a solutionno way outno possible escape or solution

no possible escape or solution

create an escape route or solution

Use 'way out' for both physical exits and metaphorical solutions, but ensure context clarifies the meaning.

Always consider whether 'way out' is being used literally (e.g., emergency exits) or figuratively (e.g., problem-solving).

From Middle English 'wey out,' meaning a path or route leading out.

Can be used both literally (physical exits) and figuratively (solutions to problems).

way

path or route

root

out

direction away from

root

English Dictionary