Differences between cross out and rub out
Cross out and rub out are both phrasal verbs used to indicate the act of removing or erasing something. However, cross out is more commonly used to indicate that something has been deleted or marked as incorrect, while rub out is used to indicate that something has been completely erased or removed.
Meanings and Definitions: cross out vs rub out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Cross out
- 1Put as line through some writing to show it is wrong.
She CROSSED OUT her mistakes and wrote the correct answers above them.
Rub out
- 1Delete ink or pencil with an eraser.
He RUBBED OUT the figure and wrote the correct one in.
- 2Kill.
The gangsters RUBBED him OUT for stealing from them.
Usage Examples: cross out, rub out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
cross out
Example
Please cross out any incorrect information on the form.
Example
She crosses out the wrong answers and writes the correct ones.
rub out
Example
She needed to rub out the mistake she made on her homework.
Example
He rubs out the incorrect answer and writes the correct one.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cross out
strike through
To draw a line through text to indicate that it is incorrect or should be removed.
Example
She struck through the sentence that didn't make sense in her essay.
To remove or erase something from a document or file.
Example
He accidentally deleted the entire paragraph instead of just one word.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Rub out
erase
To remove or delete something completely by rubbing or wiping it away.
Example
He used an eraser to erase the pencil marks on the paper.
To destroy or remove something completely, leaving no trace behind.
Example
The explosion obliterated the building, leaving only rubble in its place.
Differences in cross out vs rub out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: cross out or rub out?
In everyday conversation, cross out is more common than rub out. This is because cross out is used in a wider range of contexts, such as editing written work or making corrections, while rub out is mainly used to refer to physically erasing something.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of cross out and rub out
Both cross out and rub out are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of cross out and rub out
The tone of cross out and rub out can differ based on context. Cross out often carries a practical or critical tone when related to editing or correcting, while rub out typically has a physical and forceful tone, especially when referring to erasing something completely.
