crisscross

USAGE SUMMARY

'crisscross' is a correct and usable word in written English.
You can use it to refer to a pattern of crossing lines (such as a pattern of strings tied over a basket) or any other figurative crossing of paths or ideas. Example sentence: The crisscross of roads led up to the city center.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Dorms $22, seminars free, erraticrock.com Jude Burke To appreciate the vastness, variety and beauty of Patagonia, fly into Osorno, Chile, rent a four-wheel drive vehicle or off-road motorbike, and crisscross southbound between Chile and Argentina.

The Guardian - Travel

When cool, slice the aubergine into chunks by cutting along the crisscross.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Neither does the failure of African countries to crack down on the callous people smugglers who crisscross the continent with apparent impunity.

The Guardian - Opinion

Change toppings, or add one extra crunchy ingredient in the morning to keep things fresh: Cut an aubergine in half lengthways and slice a crisscross pattern into the flesh.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Outside, walking and cycling tracks crisscross the green slopes of the Sierra de Segura, and there's a spring-fed natural pool to cool off in.

The Guardian - Travel

Yes, the railways of the mid-19th century often stalked the existing canals, and the courses of these erstwhile rivals crisscross dramatically all the way up to the Black Country.

The Guardian - Travel

Latin phrases, church Slavonic, Chekhovian language, modern obscenities, forensic documents, and endless literary quotations are all elements of Mr Shishkin's linguistic universe.Within these crisscross streams of consciousness are a series of eloquent and gripping novellas.

The Economist

The most important of these are the new oil and gas pipelines that crisscross the country, starting from a new terminus at Kyaukphyu, just below Sittwe, up to Mandalay and on to the Chinese border town of Ruili and then Kunming, the capital of Yunnan province (see map above).

The Economist

Others are calling for armed "train marshals" to patrol at least some of the thousands of trains that crisscross the country every day.In this section Abroad be dangers Immune no more Sunk Building a new Rome ReprintsYet Germany hardly needs another raft of anti-terrorism measures.

The Economist

For one thing, half-a-dozen underground lines crisscross the area, so the expressway would have to be put in the sliver of land just above them.

The Economist

Water pipes crisscross the city in all directions.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing routes or paths, use "crisscross" to vividly illustrate a network of intersecting lines or movements. This enhances clarity and provides a more detailed picture for the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "crisscross" when a simple intersection or crossing is meant. "Crisscross" implies a pattern of multiple intersecting lines, not just a single instance of crossing.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "crisscross" is as a verb, describing the action of moving back and forth or marking something with crossed lines. Ludwig showcases it effectively in sentences like "walking and cycling tracks crisscross the green slopes."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Wiki

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "crisscross" is a versatile term, primarily used as a verb to describe a pattern of intersecting lines or movement across an area. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. Common in News & Media and Encyclopedias, it effectively conveys interconnectedness or repeated crossings. To avoid misuse, ensure "crisscross" is applied when multiple intersections are present, not for single crossings. Alternative phrases include "intersect" and "interweave", depending on the specific context. Examples from Ludwig, such as describing how walking trails "crisscross the slopes", illustrate its effective usage in vivid descriptions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intersect

Focuses on the point where lines or paths meet, rather than the pattern created.

interweave

Highlights the act of blending or interlacing elements together.

cross paths

Emphasizes the meeting or interaction of different trajectories.

traverse

Focuses on movement across or through an area.

grid pattern

Refers specifically to a pattern of horizontal and vertical lines.

network

Suggests a complex system of interconnected lines or pathways.

reticulate

Implies a net-like pattern or structure.

interlace

Highlights the intertwining of separate strands or elements.

zigzag

Describes a pattern of sharp, alternating turns.

meander

Indicates a winding or curving path.

FAQs

How can I use "crisscross" in a sentence?

You can use "crisscross" to describe a pattern of intersecting lines or a movement that involves crossing back and forth. For example, "Walking and cycling tracks "crisscross" the green slopes."

What are some alternatives to the word "crisscross"?

Depending on the context, you might use alternatives such as "intersect", "interweave", or "cross paths" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "crisscross applesauce"?

Yes, the phrase "crisscross applesauce" is a common instruction for children to sit with their legs crossed.

What is the difference between "crisscross" and "cross"?

"Cross" refers to a single instance of intersecting or passing over something, while ""crisscross"" suggests a repeated pattern of intersecting lines or paths.