off

Definitions

1. adverb

   Away from a place.

   Examples

   • He drove off in a hurry.
   • The birds flew off when we came near.
2. adverb

   Into a state of not working or not existing.

   Examples

   • Please switch off the light when you leave.
   • The dinosaurs died off long ago.
3. adverb

   So that something is removed or separated.

   Examples

   • He bit off the end of the carrot.
   • Some branches were sawn off.
4. adverb

   Out of sight of the audience, at the side of a stage.

   Examples

   • We heard noises off during the play.
   • A voice called out from off, but no one could be seen.
5. adverb

   Used in many phrases, such as show off, put off and tell off.

   Examples

   • He managed to pull off the whole plan.
   • Stop showing off in front of the guests.
6. adjective

   Not working or not turned on.

   Examples

   • All the lights are off.
   • The alarm is off for the night.
   ≠on
7. adjective

   Cancelled or not happening.

   Examples

   • The party is off because the host is sick.
   • The meeting is off until further notice.
8. adjective

   Not on, or not being worn.

   Examples

   • Your feet will feel better once those tight boots are off.
   • The drink spilled because the top was off.
9. adjective

   Not right or not normal.

   Examples

   • This answer is off because the numbers do not add up.
   • That milk smells a bit off.
10. adjective

    Not suitable or a little rude.

    Examples

    • I felt his comments were a bit off.
    • Her joke seemed a little off in that situation.