Flunk out Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Academic Consequences Flunk out implies serious academic failure leading to removal from an institution. If you don't study harder, you might flunk out of the program. Pro Tip 2/3Negative Emotion 'Flunk out' can carry a stigma, suggesting personal fault or inadequate effort. She was embarrassed to flunk out and face her family. Pro Tip 3/3Colloquial Usage The phrase is casual and might not be appropriate in formal writing. He casually mentioned that he flunked out, but it's a serious issue.