Question 1

What does "stub out" mean?

Accepted Answer

To put out a cigarette, cigar, or similar item by pressing the lit end firmly against a hard surface such as an ashtray.

Question 2

How do you use "stub out" in a sentence?

Accepted Answer

He stubbed out his cigarette in the ashtray and stood up to leave.

Question 3

Is "stub out" formal or informal?

Accepted Answer

"stub out" is register-neutral — appropriate in both casual and formal contexts. Almost exclusively used with cigarettes, cigars, or joints. Very common in everyday British and American English. The image is of pressing (stubbing) the lit end until it goes out.

stub out

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