Act out Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Dramatic Context Use 'act out' when discussing theater, film, or TV performances. She'll act out a famous monologue for the audition. Pro Tip 2/3Vivid Description 'Act out' can imply vividly showing character's thoughts through actions in performance. He was asked to act out his fear in the scene without words. Pro Tip 3/3Active Participation Use 'act out' to emphasize active engagement in the portrayal of a character. The director wants you to really act out each emotion.