Definitions

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

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

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

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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