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to score out

to score out

5.2
To draw a line through written words to show they are wrong
  • phrasal verb
  • UK
translation icon : tachar
  • The teacher asked the students to score out any incorrect answers on their tests.

Examples

  • She decided to score out the mistakes in her essay before submitting it.

  • To make the changes clearer, he scored out the irrelevant parts of the document.

  • I'm going to score out a circle as best I can.

Synonyms

to erase
vsto score out
144 1.6

Remove marks, writing, or digital files so they are no longer visible

focuses on deleting by visible marking rather than full obliteration
to cut out
vsto score out
77 3.2

To remove a shape from paper or cloth using scissors

deletes by marking or rubbing rather than by physical separation
to wipe off
vsto score out
20 1.0

Remove dirt or marks from a surface by rubbing with a cloth

is specific to removing written words with lines or rubbing
to cross out
vsto score out
14 2.3

Draw a line through a word or item to show it should be removed

is the everyday way to delete written words by marking them out
to strike out
vsto score out
8 3.7

Remove a name or item from a list by drawing a line through it

applies more generally to deleting written words beyond lists
to scratch out
vsto score out
4 4.0

Draw lines through writing so you cannot read it

uses a clearer line or rubbing rather than messy destruction
to efface
vsto score out
2 8.1

To remove something so it is no longer visible or remembered

is the common, everyday method for removing visible writing
to rub out
vsto score out
1 4.3

Erase a mark by using an eraser or cloth until it disappears

covers deletion by marking as well as by friction
to chalk off
vsto score out
  • UK
6.5

To mark an item as finished by drawing a line or writing a note

is used to delete written words rather than record completion

Antonyms

1.0

Put letters and words onto a surface using a pen or keyboard

Surface Forms

score out infinitive
scored out past
scored out past participle
scoring out present participle
scores out third person singular

Morphology

score + out

The meaning 'to cross out/remove by drawing a line through' follows directly from combining 'score' (to make a mark or cut) with the particle 'out' that signals removal or completion. This verb+out pattern (e.g., cross out, rub out) is a common, compositional English construction, so a B1 learner who knows the constituents should be able to infer the MWE's meaning.

Etymology

Score out comes from a simple image: score once meant 'to make a line or scratch', so people would draw a line out through wrong words. That's why score out now means 'to cross out' or 'to remove written words'.