cop out

[kop-out] / ˈkɒpˌaʊt /

VERB

abandon, quit

Synonyms

WEAK

back down back off back out backpedal desert dodge excuse give the slip have alibi rationalize renege renounce revoke skip use pretext withdraw

Antonyms

WEAK

be ready face ready take on

NOUN

evasive statement

Synonyms

STRONG

alibi evasion excuse justification plea pretext rationalization

WEAK

come-off compromise concession defense

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The Australian leader's comments were condemned, however, by the outspoken activist Grace Tame who labelled them a "patronising cop out from a total coward".

From Barron's • Feb. 26, 2026

Hamilton's Labour MP George Robertson believed some juries were using not proven as a "cop out" and put forward a private members' bill at Westminster proposing abolition.

From BBC • Dec. 31, 2025

Chalking it all up to bad luck seems a cop out.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 16, 2024

In the most charitable terms, his opposition is a cop out.

From Slate • May 3, 2023

I hoped it wasn’t no cop, out patrolling the park.

From "The Stars Beneath Our Feet" by David Barclay Moore

cop out

Example Sentences

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