Phrasal verb
cross out
Meanings
To draw a line through written or printed words to show they should be deleted or ignored.
To remove an item or choice from a list by marking it as no longer needed.
Definition
To cross out something is to draw a line through it to show it is removed or incorrect.
To cross out means to mark a word, number, or item as no longer wanted by drawing a line through it. People do this when editing writing, correcting mistakes, or removing items from a list. It clearly shows the original is rejected but still visible.
Examples
- I had to cross out the wrong date on the form.
- Can you cross out anything you don’t need from the checklist?
- He crossed out the first paragraph and rewrote it.
- She crossed out her old address on the envelope.
- They crossed out two options after the discussion.
Common mistake
Learners sometimes say "cross off" when they mean editing text; use "cross out" for marking words or sentences as deleted.
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.