Primary association of "to make out" [closed]

Solution 1:

The term make out has at least three distinct connotations in American English:

Teenagers often make out under the bleachers. (engage in sexual activity)

I can barely make out the wording in that sign at this distance. (discern something, usually visual)

I hope you make out well in your new wall street job. (achieve a great deal, usually financially)

Without context, most American listeners (except for those referenced youths) would have no preconception as to which of these meanings you intend. All are in common usage.

Solution 2:

There is no confusion, because the verb (phrase)s subcategorise differently. Make out = discern requires a direct object; make out = have sex doesn't take one.

And for me, the sexual meaning is not familiar enough that it even comes to mind when I encounter the phrase in its normal meaning.

Solution 3:

It depends on context.

I want to make out with Sally.

I think we'll make out fine if we can just get another sales rep.

No native speaker would be confused by the meaning of "make out" in either of those sentences.