Academic / B1

OWTL-yn/ˈaʊtlaɪn/

An outline lists main points before the full text: a brief outline; outline the argument (verb); an outline of the talk. Overview is a general picture; a draft is written sentences. In IELTS Writing, spend a minute on an outline so Task 2 stays on question. Outline can also mean the edge of a shape. Do not confuse it with out of line (behaving badly).

Meaning

A short description of the main points, without detail.

Examples

• “Write a short outline before you start the IELTS Task 2 essay.”
• “Bullet-point your outline, then write the essay from it.”
• “The minister gave only an outline of the tax changes, not the figures.”

Good to know

a brief outline; outline the plan (verb). General picture: overview. Full first version: draft. Not out of line (behaviour).

Near in meaning

summary

Topics

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