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to outline

to outline

12 3.2
To draw the outer edge of something
  • verb
  • /ˈaʊtlaɪn/
: delinear
  • The artist carefully outlined the shape of the mountain before adding details.

I actually start with everything you've just outlined.

Examples

  • First thing we need to do, outline a goal for our product.

  • I outlined our proposed changes.

  • With an architectural concept outlined, the team was now a month closer to the finish.

    Academic text (1999)
  • No music program is going to fit exactly into the advocacy plan outlined here.

    Academic text (2011)
  • Then the president outlined his plans to rollback government waste.

  • In January 2010, U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton outlined how the United States would promote Internet freedom abroad.

    Academic text (2011)
  • Each session began with group discussions of topics outlined in the course guidebook.

    Academic text (1990)
  • The overall goal of this study was achieved: an overview has been developed outlining what adolescents are communicating online.

    Academic text (2008)
  • Before starting the project, he outlined the key steps to ensure success.

  • The teacher outlined the requirements for the assignment on the whiteboard.

Synonyms

to mark
vsto outline
111 1.0

Make a visible line, spot, or sign on a surface

is specifically about tracing an outer edge rather than any generic sign
to trace
vsto outline
41 2.8

To draw lines along the outside of a shape

is more about simply marking the outer edge than exact copying
to mark out
vsto outline
8 4.0

Show the edges of an area, for example with string or chalk

is a direct outer edge tracing not about defining larger areas
to delineate
vsto outline
  • Formal
8 7.0

To draw the shape or edge of something clearly

is a simple edge tracing rather than a precise formal delimitation
to describe
vsto outline
  • Specialized
7 4.9

To draw the outline of a shape or path on a surface

is broader tracing of outer edge not only technical markings
to contour
vsto outline
5 5.5

To shape something so it follows its natural curves

is focused on a plain edge tracing rather than shaping surfaces
to mark off
vsto outline
4 3.4

To draw lines or put tape to show the edge of an area

is about tracing an object's edge rather than dividing spaces

How Clear

to define
∞ 1.0
to outline
12 3.2
to trace
41 2.8
to sketch
66 3.0

Surface Forms

outline infinitive
outlined past
outlined past participle
outlining present participle
outlines third person singular

Morphology

outline = line (transparent) = out + line

Meaning is directly composed from 'out' + 'line' and refers to marking the outer edge, which is straightforward for learners.

Etymology

Outline comes from two simple parts: out ('outside') and line ('a mark or border'). So, to outline something is to draw the 'outside line' or the shape around it.