Phrasal verbs "fill out" vs "make out"

Differences between fill out and make out

Fill out means to complete a form or document with the necessary information, while make out can have different meanings depending on the context. It can mean to understand something or someone, to write something quickly and informally, or to kiss someone romantically.

Meanings and Definitions: fill out vs make out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Fill out

  • 1Complete a form.

    I FILLED OUT the application form and mailed it.

Make out

  • 1Make a cheque payable to somebody.

    Please MAKE the cheque OUT to RGM Productions Ltd.

  • 2Pretend.

    He MADE OUT that he was ill so that he didn't have to go to school.

  • 3Progress.

    How are your children MAKING OUT at the new school?

  • 4Kiss and pet.

    They were MAKING OUT at the party last night.

  • 5Discern a small detail.

    I can just MAKE OUT the outline of a flying saucer in this photo.

  • 6Be able to see or hear something.

    Can you MAKE OUT what she's saying?

  • 7Understand someone's nature or personality.

    He's strange; I can't MAKE him OUT.

Usage Examples: fill out, make out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

fill out

Example

Please fill out this form before your appointment.

Example

She fills out the survey carefully.

make out

Example

I can barely make out the words on the sign.

Example

She makes out the faint sound of music in the distance.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fill out

To finish or accomplish a task or activity.

Example

Please complete the survey by answering all the questions.

To give or supply information that is needed for a particular purpose.

Example

You need to provide your personal information when applying for a job.

To respond to a set of questions or queries.

Example

Please answer the questions on the application form truthfully.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Make out

To understand or solve a problem or mystery.

Example

It took me a while to figure out how to use the new software program.

To write something quickly and informally.

Example

I need to jot down some notes before I forget them.

snog

To kiss someone passionately.

Example

They were caught snogging in the park by their friends.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “fill”

Phrasal Verbs with “make”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in fill out vs make out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: fill out or make out?

In everyday conversation, fill out is more common than make out. This is because fill out is a phrasal verb that people use frequently when dealing with paperwork or forms. On the other hand, make out has multiple meanings and is not used as often in daily conversations.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of fill out and make out

Fill out is a neutral and formal phrase that is commonly used in business and administrative contexts. In contrast, make out is a more informal phrase that is often used in casual conversations or romantic situations.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of fill out and make out

The tone of fill out and make out can differ based on context. Fill out typically has a practical and straightforward tone, especially when referring to completing forms or documents. On the other hand, make out can have different tones depending on the meaning. When used to describe understanding something, it can have a thoughtful or surprised tone. When used to describe kissing someone romantically, it can have a playful or intimate tone.

fill out & make out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Fill out

Synonyms

  • complete
  • fill in
  • finish
  • provide information
  • supply details

Antonyms

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!