mark items off a list

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mark items off a list" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the action of indicating that specific items have been completed or addressed from a list. Example: "As I finished each task, I made sure to mark items off a list to keep track of my progress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

She also found that on another radio show the Mayor of Austin, Tex., used rises to mark items in a list.

The New York Times - Magazine

I take a deep breath and focus on my daughter for a few minutes instead of rushing to mark items off the to-do list.

HuffPost

Shoppers will have a chance to mark items off of their holiday shopping lists while raising funds for local high school students on Thursday at Bloomingdale's, Fashion Island.

Los Angeles Times

You could spend your two weeks ticking those items off on a list that includes the Milford Track.

The New York Times

But not all his photographs are items picked off a list.

The New York Times - Books

That silly term implies that we're out only to check items off a list, like chores.

Forbes

Kids are easily gratified by checking items off a list.

Huffington Post

He rattled off a list of items from stock price to headquarter's location.

Harvard University

Volunteers are packing bags, checking off the food items against a list.

The Guardian - Money

Marking off tasks on a list can help to motivate a person to complete all the tasks.

WikiHow

She rattled off a list.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "mark items off a list", ensure that the list is clearly defined and that the act of marking signifies completion or attention to the item. This helps maintain clarity and track progress effectively.

Common error

While widely understood, repeatedly using "mark items off a list" can sound repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "check off", "complete", or "address" to maintain reader engagement and add nuance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mark items off a list" functions as a common expression indicating the completion or acknowledgement of tasks or items listed. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. It is frequently used to denote progress and task management.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "mark items off a list" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to denote the completion or acknowledgement of tasks on a list. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, noting its frequent usage in news, media, and general contexts. While interchangeable with similar phrases like "check items off a list" or "cross items off a list", it’s important to maintain clarity and avoid overuse by varying your language to enhance readability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Check items off a list

Replaces "mark" with "check", focusing on verification rather than just marking.

Cross items off a list

Uses "cross" instead of "mark", implying a more definitive completion.

Tick items off a list

Substitutes "mark" with "tick", a common British English equivalent.

Complete items on a list

Shifts focus to the act of completion rather than the marking.

Finish items on a list

Highlights the termination of tasks rather than their notation.

Finalize items on a list

Emphasizes the last stage of completion for items.

Address items on a list

Focuses on dealing with or taking care of the items.

Work through items on a list

Highlights the process of dealing with each item.

Go through items on a list

Implies a review and completion of the list's items.

Process items on a list

Focuses on handling and advancing each item on the list.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "mark items off a list"?

You can use alternatives such as "check items off a list", "cross items off a list", or "complete items on a list" depending on the context.

Is it better to say "mark items off a list" or "check items off a list"?

Both "mark items off a list" and "check items off a list" are acceptable. The choice depends on personal preference, although "check off" might imply a more thorough verification.

What does it mean to "mark items off a list"?

To "mark items off a list" means to indicate that specific items on a list have been completed, addressed, or otherwise taken care of. This is typically done by physically marking the items, such as with a checkmark or a line through the item.

What's the difference between "mark items off a list" and "cross items off a list"?

While both phrases are very similar, "cross items off a list" often suggests a more definitive action. "Marking" can sometimes be a lighter indication, while "crossing off" typically implies full completion or removal from consideration.