“Cross” – meaning and usage in English

The word “cross” in English is versatile and widely used. It can function as a noun, verb, adjective, and even as a prefix. Understanding the various meanings and uses of this word will help you enrich your vocabulary and improve your English language skills.

• Cross as a noun:
  • Meaning: a mark, object, or structure formed by two intersecting lines or pieces
  • Example: There is a cross on top of the church.
• Cross as a verb:
  • Meaning: to go across or pass from one side to the other
  • Example: We need to cross the street carefully.
• Cross as an adjective:
  • Meaning: annoyed, angry, or irritated
  • Example: He was cross with me for being late.

Moreover, “cross” is a component of many phrasal verbs and idioms, which we will explore further in this article. Understanding the various aspects of using the word “cross” will help you communicate more confidently in English and better understand native speakers.

In the following sections, we’ll delve into phrasal verbs and idiomatic expressions that use “cross,” providing you with a comprehensive understanding of this versatile word

Phrasal verbs with “Cross” in English

Cross out

• Meaning: To draw a line through written or printed text to show that it should be deleted or ignored.
• Example: Please cross out any irrelevant information in the report.
• Example: She crossed out the incorrect answer and wrote the correct one.

Cross off

• Meaning: Similar to “cross out,” but often used when removing an item from a list after completing it.
• Example: I’ve crossed off all the items on my to-do list.
• Example: Cross off any items you have already packed.

Cross over

• Meanings:
  1. To physically move from one place to another, often across a boundary.
  2. To change from one category, style, or genre to another.
• Examples:
  • We crossed over the bridge to reach the other side of the river.
  • The musician successfully crossed over from classical to pop music.

Cross up

• Meaning: To confuse or perplex someone, often by deliberately misleading them.
• Example: The unexpected question crossed up the politician during the debate.
• Example: His sudden change of plans crossed us up.

These phrasal verbs demonstrate the versatility of “cross” in English. Understanding and using them correctly can significantly enhance your English language skills and help you express yourself more precisely in various contexts.

Idioms and phrases with “Cross”

Cross one’s mind

• Meaning: To suddenly occur as a thought.
• Example: It never crossed my mind that he would quit his job.

Cross paths with

• Meaning: To meet someone by chance.
• Example: I crossed paths with my old friend at the grocery store yesterday.

Cross the line

• Meaning: To go too far, exceeding acceptable boundaries.
• Example: His comments crossed the line between criticism and insult.

Cross your fingers

• Meaning: A gesture or expression used to wish for good luck or hope for success.
• Example: She crossed her fingers for good luck before the exam.

Cross with

• Meaning: To be very displeased or angry with someone.
• Example: My mother was cross with me for coming home late.

Cross-check

• Meaning: To verify information by comparing it with other sources.
• Example: Always cross-check your sources when doing research.

Cross to

• Meaning: To switch to a different channel, station, or focus.
• Example: She crossed to the news channel to get updates on the weather.

These idioms and phrases demonstrate the versatility of “cross” in English expressions. Understanding and using them correctly can add depth and nuance to your English communication, helping you express yourself more like a native speaker.