What are the definitions of “mark out”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Draw lines to enclose an area.
They MARKED OUT the pitch.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “mark out”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb mark out is to draw lines or boundaries to enclose an area, usually for a specific purpose. For example, it can mean marking the boundaries of a sports field, a construction site, or a garden.
What are the different verb forms of “mark out”?
| Root Verb | mark out |
| Third Person Singular Present | marks out |
| Present Participle | marking out |
| Simple Past | marked out |
| Past Participle | marked out |
Example
The teacher marked out the area for the students to play.
Example
He marks out the garden beds before planting.
Example
She is marking out the space for the new playground.
Example
They marked out the construction site last week.
Example
The sports field has been marked out for the upcoming game.
What kind of phrasal verb is “mark out”?
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
“mark out” 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
The coach marked out the boundaries for the soccer field.
Example
She marked the area out for the new flower bed.
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
“mark out” 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
The coach marked out the boundaries for the soccer field.
Example
She marked the area out for the new flower bed.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “mark out”?
Good things to know
Does “mark out” have an informal or formal tone?
Mark out is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
