Meaning trap
give out
stop working
to stop working or functioning, usually because of being old or used too much.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
to stop working or functioning, usually because of being old or used too much.
Another meaning of 'give out' is 'distribute'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
My phone finally gave out after years of use.
During the hike, my old backpack gave out and the straps broke, so I had to carry everything by hand.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: My phone gave out of battery.
Say: My phone died. / My phone ran out of battery.
'Give out' = fail from wear (engine, knees, voice). For a battery or supply ending, use 'run out' or 'die'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
For a body part or machine failing from strain, natives say 'give out'. 'Ceased to function' is robotic.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
give out
- my legs
- the engine
- her voice
- the old boiler
Don't confuse it
Related
Other meanings and phrases to compare.
- give out (distribute) — Another meaning of 'give out' is 'distribute'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.