Differences between cross out and strike out
Cross out and strike out are both used to indicate that something has been deleted or removed from a written document. However, cross out is usually done by drawing a line through the text, while strike out is done by drawing a horizontal line through the text and writing the replacement text above or next to it.
Meanings and Definitions: cross out vs strike 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.
Strike out
- 1Start doing something new and different.
After doing the same job for five years, I decided to STRIKE OUT and change careers.
- 2Try to hit someone.
When he pushed me, I STRUCK OUT.
- 3Start going towards a place.
We got up early and STRUCK OUT for our final destination.
- 4Cross writing out.
As they arrived, I STRUCK their names OUT on the list I had.
- 5Fail.
I tried to get the government to support us but I STRUCK OUT.
Usage Examples: cross out, strike 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.
strike out
Example
She decided to strike out on her own and start a new business.
Example
He strikes out for a new adventure every summer.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cross out
To remove or erase something from a written document or computer file.
Example
I accidentally deleted the entire paragraph and had to rewrite it from scratch.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Strike out
To remove or erase something from a written document or computer file.
Example
I had to delete the entire section and start over from scratch.
To censor or obscure sensitive information from a document.
Example
The government agency had to redact certain details from the report before releasing it to the public.
erase
To remove or wipe away something from a surface or written document.
Example
I had to erase the whiteboard and start over with a new lesson plan.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “strike”
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
Differences in cross out vs strike out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: cross out or strike out?
Both cross out and strike out are commonly used in written English, but cross out is more frequently used in everyday writing, such as taking notes or making corrections on a paper. On the other hand, strike out is more commonly used in formal writing, such as legal documents or academic papers.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of cross out and strike out
Strike out is considered more formal than cross out. As mentioned earlier, strike out is often used in legal or academic contexts where precision and clarity are essential. Cross out, on the other hand, is more informal and can be used in everyday conversations.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of cross out and strike out
The tone of cross out and strike out can differ based on context. Cross out is often used when correcting minor errors or making casual changes to a document, so it has a more relaxed tone. Strike out, on the other hand, is used when making significant changes or removing entire sections of a document, so it has a more serious and formal tone.
