cop out

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

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

From Slate • May 3, 2023

So, it's hard to make a compelling case for either side to win this one - instead I am going to cop out of calling it one way or another, and go with a draw.

From BBC • Oct. 21, 2022

“It just took me a little bit longer than anybody else. I didn’t cop out and go to a different team.”

From Seattle Times • Apr. 14, 2022

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

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