What Does “Trundle sth out” Mean?
“Trundle sth out” means to bring out or present something, often repeatedly or in a routine way, usually to support an argument or for display.
Introduction
The phrase “trundle sth out” is a useful phrasal verb in English. It often describes the act of bringing something out, especially ideas, excuses, or objects, in a way that can seem tired or repetitive. Understanding the Trundle sth out meaning helps learners recognize when someone is reusing old arguments or presenting something in a mechanical way. This expression is common in both spoken and written English, especially in informal contexts. Knowing how to use it properly adds variety and precision to your language skills.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: Trundle something out
- Type: Transitive
- Level: B2
- Short meaning: To bring out or present something, often repeatedly or in a routine way
Structure (Grammar Rules)
“Trundle sth out” is a separable phrasal verb. This means you can place the object either between “trundle” and “out” or after “out”.
- Trundle something out
- Trundle out something
Both forms are correct:
- They trundled the old reports out during the meeting.
- They trundled out the old reports during the meeting.
How to Use Trundle sth out?
Use “trundle sth out” when talking about bringing something forward, often in a way that suggests it is old, predictable, or used many times before. It is common with ideas, excuses, stories, or objects that are repeatedly presented.
It often implies a sense of routine or lack of originality.
Examples
Here are some examples to understand trundle sth out in a sentence:
- Every time there’s a problem, he trundles out the same excuse.
- The company trundled out their old advertising campaign again this year.
- Politicians often trundle out familiar promises during election season.
- She trundled out her tired jokes, but nobody laughed.
- They trundled out the dusty trophies for the anniversary celebration.
Common Mistakes
Some learners confuse “trundle sth out” with similar phrases or use it incorrectly with intransitive verbs.
- Incorrect: They trundled out.
- Correct: They trundled out the old documents.
- Incorrect: She trundled out without an object.
- Correct: She trundled out the same excuses again.
Remember, “trundle sth out” requires an object (something) to be correct.
Differences / Synonyms
“Trundle sth out” is similar to phrases like “bring sth out,” “drag sth out,” or “wheel sth out.” However, it often carries a slightly negative or humorous tone, suggesting repeated or mechanical use.
- Bring sth out: Neutral, to reveal or publish something.
- Drag sth out: To prolong unnecessarily.
- Wheel sth out: Similar to “trundle sth out,” often meaning to bring something out for public display or use, sometimes repeatedly.
Common Collocations
You will often hear “trundle sth out” with these objects:
- Excuses – repeated reasons given to explain something
- Ideas – thoughts or suggestions presented repeatedly
- Stories – tales or accounts told again and again
- Campaigns – marketing or political efforts reused
- Trophies – awards or objects shown for display
Real-life Dialogue
Here is a natural conversation using “trundle sth out”:
Anna: Did he really use that excuse again?
Mark: Yeah, he always trundles out the same story when he’s late.
Anna: It’s getting a bit boring now.
Practice
Try to fill in the blanks with the correct form of “trundle sth out”:
- Every year, the company __________ the same old products at the trade show.
- Don’t __________ those tired excuses again; we’ve heard them before.
- She __________ her best ideas during the meeting to impress the boss.
FAQ
- What does “trundle sth out” mean? It means to bring out or present something, often repeatedly or in a routine way.
- Is “trundle sth out” separable? Yes, you can put the object between “trundle” and “out” or after “out.”
- Can “trundle sth out” be used in formal writing? It is more common in informal or conversational English.
- What types of objects can follow “trundle out”? Usually ideas, excuses, stories, campaigns, or objects like trophies.
- Is “trundle sth out” positive or negative? It often has a slightly negative or humorous tone, suggesting repetition or lack of originality.
