Differences between make out and rule out
Make out usually means to see, hear, or understand something with difficulty, while rule out means to eliminate or exclude something as a possibility.
Meanings and Definitions: make out vs rule out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Rule out
- 1Exclude a possibility.
The police have RULED OUT suicide and are treating it as a case of murder.
Usage Examples: make out, rule out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
rule out
Example
The doctor ruled out any serious illness after examining the patient.
Example
She rules out any possibility of going on vacation this year.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Make out
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Rule out
To exclude or remove something from being considered or discussed.
Example
Let's eliminate that option from consideration since it doesn't align with our project's goals.
To reject or disregard something as a potential solution or outcome.
Example
After analyzing the data, we dismissed that hypothesis as a possibility and focused on other factors.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “make”
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
Differences in make out vs rule out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: make out or rule out?
In daily conversation, people use make out more often than rule out. This is because make out can be used in a variety of situations, such as trying to read a blurry sign or hearing someone speak in a noisy environment. Rule out is less common and is mainly used in specific contexts, such as medical diagnoses or investigations.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of make out and rule out
Make out and rule out are both informal phrases that are suitable for everyday conversations. However, rule out may be used in more formal settings, such as legal or academic contexts.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of make out and rule out
The tone of make out and rule out can differ based on context. Make out often carries a frustrated or curious tone when related to understanding or perceiving something, while rule out typically has a serious and objective tone, especially when referring to eliminating possibilities in a decision-making process.
