What is the meaning of off?

The Many Meanings of “Off”

The English language is full of words that have multiple meanings, and “off” is one of the most versatile. As an adverb, “off” can mean:

• Away from a specific location: “The car drove off into the sunset.”
• Not on or attached: “The light switch was off.”
• Not in operation: “The TV is off.”
• Not functioning properly: “The computer is off.”
• Not allowed or permitted: “Smoking is off limits in this area.”

“Off” can also be used as an adjective to mean:

• Not on or attached: “The off button is on the back of the TV.”
• Not in operation: “The off season is from October to April.”
• Not functioning properly: “The off switch is broken.”
• Not allowed or permitted: “Off-road vehicles are not allowed in this park.”

In addition to its adverbial and adjectival uses, “off” can also be used as a preposition to mean:

• Away from: “The dog ran off the porch.”
• Not connected to: “The phone is off the hook.”
• Not included in: “The price does not include tax off.”

“Off” is a common word that is used in a variety of contexts. Its multiple meanings can sometimes lead to confusion, but with a little practice, you can learn to use it correctly.

Here are some examples of how “off” can be used in a sentence:

• The car drove off into the sunset.
• The light switch was off.
• The TV is off.
• The computer is off.
• Smoking is off limits in this area.
• The off button is on the back of the TV.
• The off season is from October to April.
• The off switch is broken.
• Off-road vehicles are not allowed in this park.
• The dog ran off the porch.
• The phone is off the hook.
• The price does not include tax off.