cross off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cross off" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when indicating the act of marking something as no longer relevant or completed, often in a list. Example: "After finishing the task, I will cross off the item from my to-do list."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

So we can cross off Smith/fireman.

The Guardian

I'll need to cross off two separate visits".

The New Yorker

"It's another one to cross off the list".

The Guardian - Sport

Not that I know of, unless collectors make lists in order to cross off their conquests.

The New Yorker

Some are even more eager to cross off their lists.

Forbes

When you arrive, staff will take your details and cross off your name on their checklist.

BBC

"Doing the TT is not just something I want to cross off my bucket list.

BBC

8. Cross off items on your sexual bucket list.

Huffington Post

Here's another accomplishment Mark Ronson can cross off his list.

Vice

But he's an obvious one you'd want to cross off the list.

Huffington Post

Still, the actor had one theory you can definitely cross off your list.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "cross off", be sure the context clearly indicates what is being removed or completed, often by explicitly mentioning the list or task.

Common error

Avoid using "cross off" in situations where a more formal term like "eliminate" or "remove" is more appropriate. "Cross off" is generally informal and may not suit professional or academic writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cross off" primarily functions as a phrasal verb, indicating the act of removing something from a list or marking it as completed. Ludwig AI shows examples where it signifies finishing tasks, eliminating possibilities, or removing items from consideration.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Wiki

37%

Academia

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

15%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "cross off" is a common and generally informal way to indicate the completion or removal of an item from a list. Ludwig AI analysis and examples showcase its use across various contexts, including news media, wikis, and personal task management. It is grammatically correct and easily understood, making it a practical choice for everyday communication. While versatile, it is best suited for informal settings, with more formal terms like "eliminate" or "remove" being preferable in professional or academic contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strike out

Indicates removing an item by drawing a line through it, similar to "cross off".

check off

Similar to "cross off", but uses a checkmark instead of a cross to signify completion.

remove from the list

Explicitly states the action of taking something off a list, akin to "cross off".

mark as complete

Focuses on the finished status of an item, implying it's ready to be removed.

eliminate

Suggests complete removal or exclusion, a broader action than simply marking as done.

delete

Indicates a more permanent removal, often from a digital context.

take off

A more general phrase meaning to remove something, applicable in various contexts.

scratch off

Suggests a more physical removal, like scratching off lottery tickets.

get rid of

Implies discarding something unwanted, which is related to removing from consideration.

expunge

Formal term for erasing or removing completely, often in legal contexts.

FAQs

How do I use "cross off" in a sentence?

You can use "cross off" to indicate the completion of a task or the removal of an item from a list. For example, "I can "cross off" another project from the list."

What are some alternatives to "cross off"?

Alternatives to "cross off" include "strike out", "eliminate", or "remove from the list".

Is "cross off" formal or informal?

"Cross off" is generally considered an informal phrase. In formal contexts, using "eliminate" or "remove" may be more suitable.

What's the difference between "cross off" and "check off"?

Both "cross off" and "check off" indicate completion, but "cross off" implies striking through an item, while "check off" suggests marking it with a checkmark.