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Cop Out

What Does "Cop Out" Mean?

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"Cop out" is an English idiom. It means "to avoid taking responsibility or action, often by giving weak excuses."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "cop out" used in a sentence:
  • He copped out of helping us by saying he was too busy.
  • Don't cop out on your promises.
  • She copped out at the last minute, leaving us to do all the work.
meaning for cop out

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Cop Out" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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