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."
separable
mark out
B2 neutral separable transitive
To identify someone as having special qualities that distinguish them; or to draw lines on a surface to indicate where something should go.
In plain English
Show that someone or something is special or different from others; draw lines to show where something will be.
What does "mark out" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To draw marks on the outside of an area — the figurative sense of distinguishing someone extends this naturally.
Actually means
Show that someone or something is special or different from others; draw lines to show where something will be.
Usage tip
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.
Words that pair with "mark out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
future leader talent pitch area candidate star
How to conjugate "mark out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "mark out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "mark out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "mark out"
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Keep exploring
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