Phrasal verb
cross off
Definition
phrasal verb. to draw a line through an item on a list because you have finished it or it is no longer needed.
phrasal verb. to remove an item from a list by drawing a line through it. Transitive; indicates the completion of a task or the exclusion of an option from a set.
Examples
“I cross off each item as I buy it.”
“After a long day of errands, she finally crossed off the last task on her list.”
“The committee systematically crossed off candidates who failed to meet the stringent criteria for the executive position.”
Examples
simple
“I cross off each item as I buy it.”
contextual
“After a long day of errands, she finally crossed off the last task on her list.”
complex
“The committee systematically crossed off candidates who failed to meet the stringent criteria for the executive position.”
Usage
Typically used with lists, names, or tasks and is often separable.
Teaching tip
Contrast with 'cross out', which usually implies correcting a mistake rather than completing a task.
Pitfall
I crossed out the milk from my shopping list because I bought it.
I crossed off the milk from my shopping list because I bought it.
'Cross out' usually means correcting an error, while 'cross off' means completing a task.
Phrasal verb
Particles
off
Separability
optional
Pattern
cross + off + object
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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