Flat out

adverb

As fast or as hard as possible.

They are working flat out to meet the deadline
Visual representation of "flat out" - As fast or as hard as possible

Often appears as...

  • working flat out
  • running flat out
adverb

Completely or absolutely.

I flat out refuse to go there again
Visual representation of "flat out" - Completely or absolutely

Often appears as...

  • flat out refuse
  • flat out reject

Usage tips

Disapproving

adjective

Lying fully extended or face downwards.

After the run, he was flat out on the grass
Visual representation of "flat out" - Lying fully extended or face downwards

Often appears as...

  • lying flat out
  • flat out on the floor

Usage tips

Neutral

adverb

As fast or as hard as possible.

They are working flat out to meet the deadline
Visual representation of "flat out" - As fast or as hard as possible

Often appears as...

  • working flat out
  • running flat out
adverb

Completely or absolutely.

I flat out refuse to go there again
Visual representation of "flat out" - Completely or absolutely

Often appears as...

  • flat out refuse
  • flat out reject

Usage tips

Disapproving

adjective

Lying fully extended or face downwards.

After the run, he was flat out on the grass
Visual representation of "flat out" - Lying fully extended or face downwards

Often appears as...

  • lying flat out
  • flat out on the floor

Usage tips

Neutral

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

Intensity Emphasis

Used to stress the effort or speed someone is applying in their action.

Illustration for Intensity Emphasis
He was running flat out to catch the bus.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Literal

It's an expression and doesn't mean someone is physically flat or out.

Illustration for Not Literal
Even though she was tired, she danced flat out.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Time Sensitive

Often suggests a sense of urgency or a race against time.

Illustration for Time Sensitive
The team is working flat out to finish the project on time.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Intensity Emphasis

Used to stress the effort or speed someone is applying in their action.

Illustration for Intensity Emphasis
He was running flat out to catch the bus.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Literal

It's an expression and doesn't mean someone is physically flat or out.

Illustration for Not Literal
Even though she was tired, she danced flat out.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Time Sensitive

Often suggests a sense of urgency or a race against time.

Illustration for Time Sensitive
The team is working flat out to finish the project on time.
LampPro Tip 1/3

Intensity Emphasis

Used to stress the effort or speed someone is applying in their action.

Illustration for Intensity Emphasis
He was running flat out to catch the bus.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Not Literal

It's an expression and doesn't mean someone is physically flat or out.

Illustration for Not Literal
Even though she was tired, she danced flat out.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Time Sensitive

Often suggests a sense of urgency or a race against time.

Illustration for Time Sensitive
The team is working flat out to finish the project on time.
Visual representation of the word "Flat out"

Never forget "Flat out"

Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!

Download on the App StoreGet it on Google PlayGet it from MicrosoftGet it on AppGallery
Chrome

WordUp Chrome Extension

As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.

Get Chrome Extension
Back to top