Definition

Verb: - To expel or discharge (phlegm, sputum, or other matter) from the lungs and respiratory tract through the mouth by means of a cough.

Usage

This verb specifically describes the forceful action of expelling material from the lungs. It is often used in medical or descriptive contexts. - The primary object of the verb is the substance being expelled (e.g., phlegm, blood). - It is a transitive verb, requiring a direct object.

Examples

• The patient was coughing out thick, yellow phlegm, a sign of infection.
• After inhaling the dust, he couldn't stop coughing out particles for several minutes.
• The illness caused her to cough out small amounts of blood, which was very concerning.

Advanced Usage

• Figurative Use: While less common, "cough out" can be used figuratively to describe producing words or sounds in a sudden, harsh, or involuntary manner, as if by coughing.
  • He coughed out an apology before rushing out of the room.
  • The old engine coughed out a cloud of black smoke.

Variants and Related Words

• Cough up (phrasal verb): A very common synonym meaning to expel something from the lungs or throat by coughing. It can also informally mean to hand over money or information reluctantly.
  • You need to cough up that mucus to clear your chest.
  • (Informal) He finally coughed up the money he owed me.

Synonyms

• Expectorate: (Formal/medical) To cough or spit out (phlegm) from the throat or lungs.
• Spit out: (More general) To force something out of the mouth.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Cough up: As detailed above, the most direct synonym.
• Hack up: (Informal) To cough something out in a rough, loud manner.
  • He was hacking up phlegm all night long.

Verb

1. discharge (phlegm or sputum) from the lungs and out of the mouth