root out

The phrase "root out" is often used to describe the act of thoroughly eliminating something undesirable or harmful.

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Definition

B2General

(common)To find and completely eliminate something unwanted or harmful.

Example

  • The new manager was hired to root out inefficiencies in the company.
  • They are working hard to root out corruption in the government.

B2General

(common)To search for and discover something hidden or difficult to find.

Example

  • Detectives were able to root out the hidden stash of stolen goods.
  • The journalist managed to root out the truth behind the scandal.

Similar

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "root out":

nut outrake outdig outrip outdrive outclean outstamp outflush outscrub outsweep outrig outclear outdig upstomp outshovel outkick outboot outrule outforce outtake rootthrow outroot aboutdig intoswamp outsort outchop outthresh outfilter outwinkle outroot extractionbush outtease outtake outclean housecomb outtoss outsuss outdig downcut outcarve outwipe outrim outcave outsniff outroot and branchhunt downgrub outsmoke outrub outrush out