takeout container

Meaning

A 'takeout container' (often called a 'doggy bag' or 'to-go box') is a plastic, paper, or foil box used to package food to be eaten away from the restaurant. It is commonly used for taking home leftovers or ordering meals to go.

Examples

• Could we get a takeout container for the rest of this pizza, please?

  Could we get a takeout container for the rest of this pizza, please?

• The restaurant uses eco-friendly cardboard takeout containers instead of plastic.

  The restaurant uses eco-friendly cardboard takeout containers instead of plastic.

• Make sure the lid of the takeout container is closed tightly so it doesn't leak.

  Make sure the lid of the takeout container is closed tightly so it doesn't leak.

• I need a takeout container because I can't finish this massive portion.

  I need a takeout container because I can't finish this massive portion.

• She packed her lunch in a reusable takeout container to take to the park.

  She packed her lunch in a reusable takeout container to take to the park.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ Can I have a take-away box?

  ✓ Can I have a takeout container?

  While 'takeaway box' is common in British English, 'takeout container' or 'to-go box' is the standard American English term. Mixing them can sound slightly unnatural depending on where you are.

• ✗ I put the food in a take out package.

  ✓ I put the food in a takeout container.

  Native speakers rarely use 'package' for restaurant leftovers; 'container' or 'box' is much more natural.

Related Expressions

Practice

• We have so much pasta left over; let's ask the server for a ___.

  💡 A box to put your unfinished food in.

  Show answer

  takeout container

• The soup was packed in a sturdy ___ to prevent spills.

  💡 A leak-proof box for carrying food.

  Show answer

  takeout container