Grammar fix
cross out
draw a line through
To draw a line through something written or printed, usually to show that it is wrong or should not be included.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
If you make a mistake on the form, just cross it out and write the correct answer.
In the IELTS writing test, if I write the wrong word, I usually cross it out neatly and continue with my answer.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: Cross out it and write the correct answer.
Say: Cross it out and write the correct answer.
With a pronoun, the object goes in the middle: 'cross it out'.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Cross out' is the plain verb for striking through text; the long instruction is needlessly formal.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
cross out + text
- a word
- your mistake
- the name
- it