In traditional typesetting, an out is a mistake where a compositor accidentally skips a word, sentence, or entire line of copy while setting metal type. This error forces the typesetter to open the form and drive out the remaining text to insert the missing characters, which can disrupt the justification of several subsequent lines.
The proofreader caught an out in the second paragraph, so you'll need to reset the rest of the column.
Fixing an out in hand-set type is notoriously tedious, as adding even one word can force the compositor to re-justify every remaining line in the paragraph.
Do not mix it up with
- Doublet: An out is missing text, while a doublet is text accidentally set twice.
Related terms
Doublet
A typesetting error where a word or phrase is accidentally repeated.
Compose
The historic process of hand-setting individual metal type characters into lines of text.
Drive out
To space out text widely to fill more lines or pages.
Chase
A heavy steel or iron frame used to hold metal type and blocks securely together for printing.