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Phrasal verbs "back off" vs "keep off"

Differences between back off and keep off

Back off means to move away or retreat from a situation, while keep off means to stay away or avoid something.

Meanings and Definitions: back off vs keep off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Back off

  • 1Retreat.

    The police told the protesters to BACK OFF.

Keep off

  • 1Not talk about.

    She KEPT OFF the subject of her divorce.

  • 2Not tread on something.

    KEEP OFF the grass in the park, please.

Usage Examples: back off, keep off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

back off

Example

When the dog started barking, I decided to back off.

Example

She backs off when she realizes she's getting too close.

keep off

Example

Please keep off the freshly painted floor.

Example

He keeps off the grass to protect it from damage.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Back off

step back

To move away from a situation or person.

Example

He asked the crowd to step back so he could get some air.

give space

To allow someone or something more room or distance.

Example

She asked her friend to give her some space to think about the situation.

retreat

To withdraw or move back from a situation or place.

Example

The soldiers were ordered to retreat after the enemy advanced.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Keep off

stay away

To avoid or not go near something or someone.

Example

The sign warned people to stay away from the construction site.

avoid

To keep away from or prevent something from happening.

Example

She tried to avoid eating too much sugar to maintain a healthy diet.

steer clear of

To avoid or stay away from something or someone that is considered dangerous or harmful.

Example

He always steered clear of the rough neighborhood on his way home.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “keep”

Differences in back off vs keep off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: back off or keep off?

Both phrases are commonly used in everyday conversation, but keep off is slightly less common than back off. Back off is often used in situations where someone is being too aggressive or pushy, while keep off is used more for warning someone to stay away from a dangerous or restricted area.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of back off and keep off

Both back off and keep off are informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, keep off may be used in more formal settings such as warning signs or instructions.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of back off and keep off

The tone of back off can be forceful or confrontational, while keep off is more cautionary or warning in tone.

back off & keep off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Back off

Synonyms

Keep off

Synonyms

Antonyms

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