Cool MateMeaning of Come out of the woodwork
To emerge unexpectedly after being hidden or unnoticed.
In simple words: To appear or show up unexpectedly, especially after being hidden.
Come out of the woodwork in a sentence
- After I shared my story, friends I hadn't heard from in years began to come out of the woodwork.
- As soon as the announcement was made, critics started to come out of the woodwork to voice their opinions.
- You won't believe how many old acquaintances came out of the woodwork after my promotion.
- When she won the lottery, people from her past came out of the woodwork looking for a handout.
How to use Come out of the woodwork
Use this idiom in casual conversations when referring to people or things that suddenly appear, especially after being absent or unnoticed for a while. It's typically informal and can imply surprise or annoyance.
Grammar pattern
standalone expression
Memory hint
Think of woodwork hiding bugs that suddenly come out when inspected.
Related words
Collocations with Come out of the woodwork
- come out of the woodwork unexpectedly
- people come out of the woodwork
- critics come out of the woodwork
Common mistakes with Come out of the woodwork
- Using it in formal contexts, which can sound inappropriate.
- Confusing it with similar idioms, leading to incorrect usage.
- Not using it to express a sudden appearance, leading to unclear meaning.
Compare Come out of the woodwork with Appear, Emerge, Surface
Come out of the woodwork appears in
Come out of the woodwork in other languages
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Frequently asked questions about Come out of the woodwork
What does Come out of the woodwork mean?
To appear or show up unexpectedly, especially after being hidden.
What is the definition of Come out of the woodwork?
To emerge unexpectedly after being hidden or unnoticed.
How do you use Come out of the woodwork in a sentence?
After I shared my story, friends I hadn't heard from in years began to come out of the woodwork.
Can you give another example of Come out of the woodwork?
As soon as the announcement was made, critics started to come out of the woodwork to voice their opinions.
What are synonyms for Come out of the woodwork?
Common alternatives include appear, emerge, show up, reveal oneself, surface.
What words go with Come out of the woodwork?
It commonly pairs with come out of the woodwork unexpectedly, people come out of the woodwork, critics come out of the woodwork.
What are common mistakes when using Come out of the woodwork?
Using it in formal contexts, which can sound inappropriate. Confusing it with similar idioms, leading to incorrect usage. Not using it to express a sudden appearance, leading to unclear meaning.
How do you pronounce Come out of the woodwork?
US: //kʌm aʊt əv ðə ˈwʊdˌwɜrk//, UK: //kʌm aʊt əv ðə ˈwʊdwɜːk//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.
Is Come out of the woodwork formal or informal?
"Come out of the woodwork" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.
When should I use Come out of the woodwork?
Use this idiom in casual conversations when referring to people or things that suddenly appear, especially after being absent or unnoticed for a while. It's typically informal and can imply surprise or annoyance.