A1 noun Neutral #2,538 most common

outlet

/ˈaʊt.let/

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 5
1

I am looking for an electrical outlet to charge my laptop.

I am looking for an electrical outlet to charge my laptop.

2

The manufacturer has authorized a new retail outlet in the city center.

The manufacturer has authorized a new retail outlet in the city center.

3

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

Noun
outlet
Related
inlet
💡

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

1

I am looking for an electrical outlet to charge my laptop.

everyday

I am looking for an electrical outlet to charge my laptop.

2

The manufacturer has authorized a new retail outlet in the city center.

formal

The manufacturer has authorized a new retail outlet in the city center.

3

He uses playing the guitar as a creative outlet after a long day.

informal

He uses playing the guitar as a creative outlet after a long day.

4

The geological survey identified the primary outlet for the underground spring.

academic

The geological survey identified the primary outlet for the underground spring.

5

We are planning to clear our inventory through our factory outlet stores.

business

We are planning to clear our inventory through our factory outlet stores.

Word Family

Noun
outlet
Related
inlet

Common Collocations

electrical outlet electrical outlet
creative outlet creative outlet
factory outlet factory outlet
retail outlet retail outlet
media outlet media outlet

Common Phrases

outlet for emotions

outlet for emotions

wall outlet

wall outlet

outlet mall

outlet mall

Often Confused With

outlet vs plug

A plug is the part at the end of a wire that you put into the outlet on the wall.

outlet vs inlet

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

countable noun plural: outlets
🌍

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 Words

overall

B2

Describing the total or general nature of something when all parts or factors are considered together. It refers to the whole of a situation rather than specific details or individual components.

overlap

B2

To cover part of the same area of space or time as something else, or to have some common qualities or features. It describes situations where two things occupy the same physical space partially or where two events happen simultaneously for a period.

overseas

B2

Relating to, coming from, or situated in a country across the sea or ocean. It is used to describe international contexts, particularly travel, trade, or living arrangements in a foreign land.

panel

B2

A panel is a small group of people brought together to discuss a specific topic, provide expert advice, or make decisions. It can also refer to a distinct, flat, and often rectangular section of a larger surface, such as a wall, door, or control board.

parameter

B2

A parameter is a limit or boundary that defines the scope of a particular process, system, or activity. In technical or mathematical contexts, it refers to a measurable factor that sets the conditions of an operation.

passive

B2

Describing someone who allows things to happen or accepts what others do without resistance or participation. It is also used in grammar to describe a sentence structure where the subject is the recipient of the action rather than the performer.

persist

B2

To continue firmly in an opinion or a course of action despite difficulty, opposition, or failure. It also refers to a state or condition that continues to exist or endure over a prolonged period.

philosophy

B2

Philosophy is the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence, especially when considered as an academic discipline. It also refers to a specific set of beliefs, values, or principles that guide the behavior and outlook of an individual or an organization.

portion

B2

A portion is a part of a whole that has been divided or allocated to a specific person or purpose. It is most commonly used to describe a serving of food or a specific share of a larger amount, such as money or time.

pose

B2

To present or constitute a problem, danger, or challenge that needs to be addressed. It also refers to the physical act of assuming a specific position for a photograph, painting, or artistic work.

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