score out
LowNeutral
Definition
Meaning
To draw a line through written text to indicate deletion or cancellation.
To eliminate or cancel something, often in a metaphorical or non-literal sense.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily used in editing, proofreading, or correction contexts; implies a visual or physical act of removal.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
In British English, 'score out' is used similarly to 'cross out', but in American English, 'cross out' is more common and preferred.
Connotations
Both imply deletion or removal, with no significant connotative differences.
Frequency
More frequently encountered in British English than in American English.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
score out [object]score [object] outVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Rarely used; occasionally in document editing or administrative corrections.
Academic
Common in proofreading, editing essays, or correcting written assignments.
Everyday
Frequent when making handwritten notes or correcting errors on paper.
Technical
Used in publishing, typesetting, or graphic design for indicating deletions.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- Please score out any errors in the document before finalising it.
American English
- She scored out the wrong answer on her test paper.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- I scored out my mistake with a pencil.
- He scored out the old address and wrote the new one below.
- Before submitting the report, ensure you score out any irrelevant sections.
- The editor meticulously scored out redundant phrases to enhance the manuscript's clarity.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine scoring a line through a mistake to take it out of the text.
Conceptual Metaphor
DELETION IS CROSSING OUT.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid translating as 'выбивать' (to knock out); use 'вычеркивать' for accurate meaning.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing with 'score off' meaning to gain an advantage
- Incorrect word order such as 'out score' instead of 'score out'.
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'score out'?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, they are synonyms, but 'cross out' is more commonly used in American English, while 'score out' is seen more in British English.
It is primarily associated with physical writing, but can be metaphorically applied to digital editing, such as striking through text in word processors.
From 'score' meaning to make a line or cut, and 'out' indicating removal, dating back to practices in manuscript editing.
In British English, pronounce it as /skɔː aʊt/, and in American English as /skɔːr aʊt/, with a rhotic 'r' in 'score'.