Out of pocket
"Out of pocket" is a colloquial expression used to describe expenses or costs that an individual incurs personally, typically without reimbursement or coverage from a third party, such as insurance or an employer. These expenses are often paid directly by the individual using their own funds, rather than being covered by an external source. "Out of pocket" costs can vary widely, ranging from everyday expenses like groceries or transportation to unexpected or significant expenditures such as medical bills or home repairs. In essence, when someone says they are "out of pocket," they are referring to being financially responsible for a particular expense without assistance or reimbursement.
Moreover, "out of pocket" can also refer to someone being unavailable or inaccessible, especially in a professional context. If an individual is "out of pocket" in this sense, it means they are not reachable or unavailable to communicate or attend to business matters. This could be due to being away from the office, on vacation, or simply unavailable for a period of time. In this context, being "out of pocket" implies a temporary absence or unavailability, highlighting the importance of effective communication and planning in professional settings.