exit
B1Pronunciation
UK
- /ˈɛɡzɪt/
US
- /ˈɛɡzɪt/
- /ˈɛksət/
Description
- leave
- way out
- depart
- opening to leave
- road turnoff
An exit is not just about leaving a place. It is also the route, door, or opening you use to get out. Think of a highway exit that lets you leave the main road and go somewhere else. "Exit" can also be used as a verb. If a performer exits the stage, they leave it. Sometimes it is used in a figurative way, like when a company exits a market, meaning it stops doing business there. An exit can be dramatic, with loud words and slammed doors, or it can be quiet and barely noticed.
The word "exit" refers to the act of leaving a place, or the way out that allows you to do so. It's more than just departing; it implies a specific point or route for departure. Think about a theater: the "exit" signs guide you safely out after the final curtain call.
As a noun, an exit can be a doorway, gate, road junction, or any opening that allows passage out of a place. "The emergency exits were clearly marked" indicates designated routes for safety.
As a verb, to exit means to leave a place. "Passengers must exit the bus through the rear door." It can also be used figuratively to describe withdrawing from a situation or activity. For example: "The company decided to exit the European market," meaning they stopped doing business there.
Sometimes "exit" carries a dramatic flair, suggesting a sudden or noticeable departure. A character might make a grand exit from a party after an argument. Or, in stage directions, it simply indicates when an actor leaves the scene.
So, whether you're navigating a building, leaving a situation behind, or making a memorable impression—"exit" is all about the act of going out and the path that takes you there.
Examples
- 1
Building signs
We followed the signs to the nearest exit.
- 2
Safety
There are two emergency exits at the back of the theater.
- 3
Highway directions
Take Exit 7 for the airport.
Pattern
take Exit + number
leave the highway at that exit number
- 4
Polite instruction
Please exit through the rear door.
- 5
Driving
He exited the highway too early and got lost.
- 6
Career change
Her exit from the company came as a surprise to everyone.
- 7
Business planning
The investors wanted a clear exit strategy before they signed the deal.
Phrase
exit strategy
a plan for leaving a business, investment, or difficult situation
- 8
Performance
After thanking the crowd, the singer made her exit.
Phrase
make your exit
leave, often in a noticeable or formal way
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- exitnounverb
Forms
- exitspluralnounverb
- exitedpast tenseverbnoun
- exiting-ing formverbnoun