The phrase "spell out" consists of two common English words. The word "spell" is spelled /spɛl/ and the word "out" is spelled /aʊt/. When used together, "spell out" means to speak letter by letter, or to make something clear and explicit. The word "spell" has a long vowel sound, while "out" has a diphthong vowel sound, pronounced like "ow". This phrase is often used in situations where exactness and clarity are necessary, such as when giving directions, instructions, or spelling a difficult word.
The phrase "spell out" is a verb phrase that has several different meanings and connotations depending on the context in which it is used.
One common definition of "spell out" is to articulate or write out each individual letter of a word or phrase in a clear and precise manner. This is often done to ensure accurate understanding or to assist someone who may have difficulty with spelling. For example, a teacher might ask a student to spell out a challenging word to help them learn the correct spelling.
Another meaning of "spell out" is to explain something in explicit detail, leaving no ambiguity or uncertainty. In this sense, "spell out" implies providing a thorough and comprehensive explanation, often to ensure that there is no room for confusion or misunderstanding. For instance, a contract or agreement may require certain terms to be "spelled out" to define them precisely, leaving no room for misinterpretation.
Additionally, "spell out" can refer to making something abundantly clear or evident by providing explicit details or examples. This usage suggests leaving no room for speculation or doubt. For example, a speaker may "spell out" the consequences of a particular action to emphasize their significance and leave no room for misinterpretation.
Overall, "spell out" can convey the acts of spelling, clarifying, and elaborating, depending on the specific context in which it is used.
The phrase "spell out" has a literal and metaphorical origin. It originated from the Old English word "spellian", which meant "to tell, speak, or utter words". In Old English, "spell" also referred to a spoken message or story. Over time, the word evolved to mean "recite the letters of a word one by one" or "to make clear or explain something explicitly". The phrase "spell out" gained its current meaning of providing a detailed explanation or making something explicit around the 17th century.