Differences between close out and zero out
Close out means to bring something to an end or to complete a task, while zero out means to reduce something to zero or to balance accounts.
Meanings and Definitions: close out vs zero out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Close out
- 1Bring something to an end.
We CLOSED OUT the meeting early and went home.
- 2Close or stop using.
She CLOSED OUT the account and changed to another bank.
- 3Ignore, exclude.
They always CLOSE me OUT of their plans.
Zero out
- 1Cut off funding for a project.
The debt was ZEROED OUT by the department.
- 2Reduce to zero, cancel, remove.
The entry was ZEROED OUT of the database.
Usage Examples: close out, zero out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
close out
Example
We need to close out this project by the end of the month.
Example
She closes out her workday by organizing her desk.
zero out
Example
The manager decided to zero out the budget for the project.
Example
She zeroes out the old data before starting a new analysis.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Close out
wrap up
To finish or complete a task or project.
Example
Let's wrap up this meeting and move on to the next agenda item.
conclude
To bring something to an end or to reach a final decision or agreement.
Example
After hours of negotiations, the two parties were able to conclude a deal.
finish off
To complete the last part of a task or to consume the last of something.
Example
She finished off the cake by eating the last slice.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Zero out
To make something invalid or ineffective.
Example
The court ruling nullified the contract, making it void and unenforceable.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “close”
Phrasal Verbs with “zero”
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
Differences in close out vs zero out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: close out or zero out?
In daily conversation, people use close out more often than zero out. This is because close out is used in various contexts such as sports, finance, and retail. Zero out is less common and mainly used in financial contexts.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of close out and zero out
Close out and zero out are both informal phrases often used in casual conversations. However, zero out is more commonly used in financial or accounting contexts, which can make it sound more formal.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of close out and zero out
The tone of close out and zero out can differ based on context. Close out often carries a sense of accomplishment or finality when referring to completing a task or ending a game. On the other hand, zero out typically has a more technical or business-like tone, especially when referring to balancing accounts or reducing debt.
