Rat out

usgb
verb

To tell on someone or report their wrongdoing.

He ratted out his brother for stealing cookies.
Visual representation of "rat out" - To tell on someone or report their wrongdoing

Often appears as...

  • rat someone out
  • get ratted out

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "rat out"
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Informal Speech

Used in casual conversation, often among peers or within social groups.

Illustration for Informal Speech
If you rat me out for cutting class, you're not cool.
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Negative Connotation

Carries a negative sense, suggesting disloyalty or breaking trust.

Illustration for Negative Connotation
I can't believe she'd rat out her own team!
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Non-professional Context

Usually inappropriate in formal or professional settings, where 'report' or 'disclose' might be better.

Illustration for Non-professional Context
In the office, it's better to report issues than to rat out co-workers.
Visual representation of the word "Rat out"

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