Stock out Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A 'stock out' happens when a store or business runs out of a product, so it is not available for customers to buy.
Usage & Nuances
Common in business, retail, and supply chain contexts. Often used as a noun: 'We had a stock out of rice.' Sometimes used as a verb phrase: 'We stock out every December.' Formal to neutral register; more technical than everyday speech. Don't confuse with 'sold out,' which refers to one specific item, while 'stock out' can refer to broader availability issues.
Example Sentences
The store had a stock out of eggs last week.
basic
A stock out can make customers go to another shop.
basic
We try to avoid a stock out of popular items.
basic
There was a huge stock out during the holiday rush.
natural
If we stock out again, the boss will be upset.
natural
The website crashed after the sudden stock out of new phones.
natural