cross out
(transitive, slang) To lie to or betray (someone); to deceive or scam (someone).
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Writing is easy. All you have to do is cross out the wrong words. ~ Mark Twain
[Jump to content](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strikethrough#bodyContent) From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Words with a horizontal line through them "Cross out" redirects here.
Definitions
(transitive, slang) To lie to or betray (someone); to deceive or scam (someone).
If you make a mistake, just cross it out.
“[Jump to content](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strikethrough#bodyContent) From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Words with a horizontal line through them "Cross out" redirects here.”
Comments
(idiomatic, transitive, AAVE, graffiti) To disrespect (someone) by covering up or painting over their graffiti, especially their name.
If you make a mistake, just cross it out.
Comments
(idiomatic, transitive) To strike out (something); to draw a line through (something).
If you make a mistake, just cross it out.
Cross out means: To strike out (something); to draw a line through (something).. There is no real cause for parental concern; it is descriptive vocabulary rather than risky behaviour. If your teen uses it, context will usually make the intent clear. A short, curious question about where they heard it is usually all that is needed to know whether to follow up.
cross out means: To strike out (something); to draw a line through (something).. Register: neutral, standard English. Common learner mistake is using the word in a register it does not fit, or assuming a single global meaning; always check the context before producing it yourself. A formal-English equivalent (a synonym or descriptive phrase) is usually safer in writing. When in doubt, paraphrase rather than reuse the slang form.
“Writing is easy. All you have to do is cross out the wrong words. ~ Mark Twain”
— Bluesky· May 2026
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