What are the definitions of “cross off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Delete, remove from a list.
She CROSSED him OFF her Christmas card list after they argued.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “cross off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb cross off is to delete or remove something from a list. It is often used when you have completed a task or decided not to do something on your list.
What are the different verb forms of “cross off”?
| Root Verb | cross off |
| Third Person Singular Present | crosses off |
| Present Participle | crossing off |
| Simple Past | crossed off |
| Past Participle | crossed off |
Example
I always cross off the items on my shopping list as I buy them.
Example
She crosses off each task as she completes it.
Example
He is crossing off the names of the people who have already RSVP'd.
Example
Yesterday, they crossed off all the completed tasks from their to-do list.
Example
The finished items were crossed off the list.
What kind of phrasal verb is “cross off”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“cross off” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She crossed off the items from her list.
Example
He crossed the names off the guest list.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“cross off” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She crossed off the items from her list.
Example
He crossed the names off the guest list.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “cross off”?
Good things to know
Does “cross off” have an informal or formal tone?
Cross off is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, such as in business or academic contexts.
