outlet
A place or opening through which something, such as liquid or energy, can go out. It also refers to a store that sells products from a specific brand or a point in a wall where you can plug in electrical devices.
Examples
3 of 5I am looking for an electrical outlet to charge my laptop.
I am looking for an electrical outlet to charge my laptop.
The manufacturer has authorized a new retail outlet in the city center.
The manufacturer has authorized a new retail outlet in the city center.
He uses playing the guitar as a creative outlet after a long day.
He uses playing the guitar as a creative outlet after a long day.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of 'Out + Let'—it 'lets' things 'out,' like electricity out of a wall or stress out of your mind.
Quick Quiz
Writing poetry is a great ______ for her feelings.
Correct!
The correct answer is: outlet
Examples
I am looking for an electrical outlet to charge my laptop.
everydayI am looking for an electrical outlet to charge my laptop.
The manufacturer has authorized a new retail outlet in the city center.
formalThe manufacturer has authorized a new retail outlet in the city center.
He uses playing the guitar as a creative outlet after a long day.
informalHe uses playing the guitar as a creative outlet after a long day.
The geological survey identified the primary outlet for the underground spring.
academicThe geological survey identified the primary outlet for the underground spring.
We are planning to clear our inventory through our factory outlet stores.
businessWe are planning to clear our inventory through our factory outlet stores.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
outlet for emotions
outlet for emotions
wall outlet
wall outlet
outlet mall
outlet mall
Often Confused With
A plug is the part at the end of a wire that you put into the outlet on the wall.
An inlet is a place where something enters, while an outlet is where it exits.
Usage Notes
In American English, 'outlet' is the standard term for the power point in a wall. In the context of shopping, it specifically refers to stores that sell discounted goods directly from the manufacturer.
Common Mistakes
Learners often call the hole in the wall a 'plug'. Remember: you put the plug INTO the outlet.
Memory Tip
Think of 'Out + Let'—it 'lets' things 'out,' like electricity out of a wall or stress out of your mind.
Word Origin
Derived from Middle English 'utlete,' meaning a way out or a place for something to flow out.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In the United States and Europe, 'outlet malls' are large shopping centers where many brands sell items at a lower price than standard retail stores.
Quick Quiz
Writing poetry is a great ______ for her feelings.
Correct!
The correct answer is: outlet
Related Vocabulary
Related Words
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