mark out
B2 neutral separable transitive
In simple words
Show that someone or something is special or different from others; draw lines to show where something will be.
Literal meaning: To draw marks on the outside of an area — the figurative sense of distinguishing someone extends this naturally.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
neutral
To identify someone as special, talented, or destined for something, based on their qualities.
"Her dedication and creativity marked her out as the most promising student in the programme."
Grammar: separable
2 B1 neutral
To draw lines or place markers on a surface to define an area or space.
"The groundskeeper marked out the football pitch early in the morning."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
The 'identify as special' sense is very common in British English and is often used in the passive ('marked out as a future leader'). The physical sense is used in sports, construction, and design.
Commonly used with
future leader talent pitch area candidate star
Forms
Base
mark out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
marks out
he/she/it
Past simple
marked out
yesterday
Past participle
marked out
have + pp
-ing form
marking out
continuous
Understand "mark out" better
Try:
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Synonyms
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "mark out" on Looplines