Aloud vs. Out Loud
Sometimes, words in the English language mean the same thing, but they are used in different contexts. Aloud and out loud are an example of this. Both of these mean the same thing, and function as the same part of speech; however, you might choose one over the other depending on the context of the sentence.
Aloud is an adverb meaning able to be heard; not silently.
1. The teacher asked me to read aloud.
2. Jessica spoke her agreement aloud, but she had doubts that she kept to herself.
3. The girl giggled aloud when the principal complimented her on her behavior.
Out Loud is an adverbial phrase which also means able to be heard; audibly.
1. Marissa realized she was singing out loud when people started staring at her.
2. Please do not give your answer out loud until I call on you.
3. The comedian had the entire audience laughing out loud.
While both of these words mean the same thing, and they can sometimes be used interchangeably, the connotation (the feelings and meanings associated with the word) are slightly different. Out loud has a connotation of speaking aloud without restraint-almost like an involuntary response or an outburst. Notice the sentences above. All of those with out loud are more involuntary-less restraint.
In summary, you can use aloud and out loud interchangeably. Just keep in mind that out loud might be a better choice if the context of the sentence is a situation without restraint, or an outburst.
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