"Out of pocket" has multiple meanings depending on the context. Here are the three most common meanings:
- Referring to expenses that you cover yourself, as opposed to expenses that are paid by someone else, such as your employer or your insurance company.
- Referring to being unreachable or unavailable, especially in the context of communication. For example, if a reporter is on a plane and cannot be reached, they are said to be "out of pocket".
- Referring to talking nonsense or saying things that are not related to the topic at hand.
It is important to note that the meaning of "out of pocket" can vary depending on the region and context. Some people may use it to mean something different from the three meanings listed above. However, the original meaning of "out of pocket" is related to expenses that you pay for yourself.
