About "Trace" & "Traceable"

Dear Sir,

I would like to know whether the following sentences are acceptable or correct in usage. I am wondering whether I can insert "out" after "trace" to mean "discover by searching or researching evidence". How about the second sentence? Is there anything wrong? If there are unacceptable, please re-construct them.

1. Mr. Chong expressed the need for a work order number in order to trace out the lead to the requestor.

2. It looks as if the work order number could be traceable in the e-mails.

Thank you.

Quote:

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Originally Posted by Green Bean

Dear Sir,

I would like to know whether the following sentences are acceptable or correct in usage. I am wondering whether I can insert "out" after "trace" to mean "discover by searching or researching evidence". How about the second sentence? Is there anything wrong? If there are unacceptable, please re-construct them.

1. Mr. Chong expressed the need for a work order number in order to trace out the lead to the requestor. "Out" is not necessary nor usual in your example.

2. It looks as if the work order number could be traceable in the e-mails. OK.

Thank you.

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b.

Dear teacher,

On checking the dictionary, the words "trace out" means to outline or sketch (an idea, policy etc). You mentioned that the word "out" is not necessary. If it is included, is my sentence still not considered as wrong? Also, does it make any difference between "done at a go" and "done at one go"? Thanks.

Welcome to Using English.

To include "out" would be wrong.