out-and-out

/ˌaʊt ən ˈaʊt/ (bre, ipa) · /ˌaʊt ən ˈaʊt/ (ame, ipa) · /ˌau̇t-ᵊn(d)-ˈau̇t/ (ame, mw)

out-and-out — adjective

1. used before a noun to say someone or something is clearly and completely the bad

1.形容詞C1
釋義

used before a noun to say someone or something is clearly and completely the bad kind named by that noun

例句

The report exposed an out-and-out lie at the heart of the election.

out-and-out + lie for total dishonesty

For Nia, the sudden price jump was an out-and-out scam.

predicative frame: be + an out-and-out scam

同義詞
  • outright

    the closest everyday alternative; works for strong negative judgments and for direct refusals or bans

  • utter

    often used before strongly negative nouns, but sounds more emotional

  • sheer

    can also mean complete, but it often focuses on degree rather than blame

文法句型

out-and-out + noun

用法筆記

Usually placed before strongly negative nouns such as lie, scam, cheat, threat, or insult. Speakers use it to remove any doubt that the judgment is fully negative, not partial or softened.

常見錯誤

❌The manager was out-and-out.
✅The manager was an out-and-out cheat.
💡The phrase normally modifies a noun that names the bad quality, rather than standing alone after 'be'.