make out

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

On the Marine Traffic map, which tracks world shipping movements, you can make out clusters of ships, mainly tankers, anchored far to the north near Kuwait, as well as off the coast near Dubai.

From Barron's • Mar. 2, 2026

Or when you phone a company and the AI “assistant” that responds really can’t make out what you’re asking to route the call correctly.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 25, 2026

It was difficult from my seat in the press gallery to make out much of what he was saying.

From Slate • Feb. 24, 2026

The shout was audible in the broadcast, although many viewers would have struggled to make out the word.

From BBC • Feb. 23, 2026

Her long black hair was tied up in a bun, though Jack could make out a white streak or two playing in and out of the hair.

From "Half Upon a Time" by James Riley