1 A2 informal
To draw an X through text or an item to indicate it is wrong, canceled, or should be ignored.
"She x'd out the wrong answers and wrote the corrections above them."
separable
x out
B1 informal separable transitive
To mark something with an X to cancel or delete it; to eliminate or get rid of something.
In plain English
To put an X through something on paper to show it is wrong, canceled, or should be removed.
What does "x out" mean?
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 idiomatic informal
To close a window, tab, or dialog box by clicking the X button.
"Just x out of that pop-up and continue reading the article."
separable
3 B1 idiomatic informal
To eliminate or remove someone or something from a list, plan, or consideration.
"We can x out the first two candidates — neither of them has the required experience."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To mark something with the letter X to indicate it should be removed or is incorrect.
Actually means
To put an X through something on paper to show it is wrong, canceled, or should be removed.
Usage tip
Common in informal writing and editing. Also used metaphorically to mean eliminating someone or something from consideration. In digital contexts, refers to clicking the X button to close a window or tab.
Words that pair with "x out"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
word name mistake line error window
How to conjugate "x out"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
x out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
xes out
he/she/it
Past simple
xed out
yesterday
Past participle
xed out
have + pp
-ing form
xing out
continuous
Hear "x out" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "x out" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
Jump to every phrasal verb built on the same verb, particle, or level.