english
1
general::
Phrase(s): sit something out not to participate in something; to wait until something is over before participating. • Oh, please play with us. Don’t sit it out. • I’m tired of playing cards, so I think I’ll sit out this game.
McGrawhill's American Idioms And Phrasal Verbs
2
general::
1. Also, sit through. Stay until the end of, as in We decided to sit out the lecture instead of leaving early, or He was only eight when he sat through an entire opera? and it lasted nearly five hours. [Early 1700s] 2. Refrain from taking part in, as in Jane's foot hurt so she sat out the last three dances. [Mid1600s] 3. Outlast, outstay, as in He sat out all the other guests, hoping to get a word alone with the host. [Mid-1700s]
American Heritage Idioms