Chicken out

usgb
verb

To decide not to do something because of fear or nerves.

He was going to try bungee jumping, but he chickened out at the last minute.
Visual representation of "chicken out" - To decide not to do something because of fear or nerves

Often appears as...

  • chicken out of
  • chicken out at the last minute

Usage tips

Informal

Colloquial, Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "chicken out"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Informal Speech

Used in casual conversations among friends or in informal settings.

Illustration for Informal Speech
I might chicken out of giving the toast at the party.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Negative Connotation

Implies weakness or lack of courage, can be mildly insulting or humorous.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
Come on, don't chicken out now, you promised to sing karaoke!
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Common Collocations

Often used with 'of' to specify the action avoided due to fear or nerves.

Illustration for Common Collocations
She chickened out of making the speech.
Visual representation of the word "Chicken out"

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