Meaning trap
bring out
elicit response
to cause a particular reaction, feeling, or behaviour in someone, especially in a way that reveals their true character or emotions.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
to cause a particular reaction, feeling, or behaviour in someone, especially in a way that reveals their true character or emotions.
'bring out' also has the more basic meaning 'release a product'; this is the advanced sense.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
The intense competition brought out the best in her, pushing her to achieve more than she thought possible.
Group projects can bring out a range of responses in students, from strong leadership skills to unexpected conflicts.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: She brings out the best of me.
Say: She brings out the best in me.
'Bring out the best/worst IN someone', not 'of'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Bring out the best/worst in someone' is the set phrase; the paraphrase is clunky.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
bring out the best/worst in
- the best
- the worst
- a side of
- in someone
Don't confuse it
Related
Other meanings and phrases to compare.
- bring out (release a product) — 'bring out' also has the more basic meaning 'release a product'; this is the advanced sense.