Differences between be off and be out to
Be off means to leave a place or to depart from somewhere, while be out to means to have a particular intention or purpose in mind.
Meanings and Definitions: be off vs be out to
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Be off
- 1Be bad ( of food ).
This yoghurt must BE OFF; it smells foul.
- 2Depart, leave.
I'm OFF home; it's five o'clock.
Be out to
- 1Attempt.
She IS OUT TO get him sacked because she hates him.
Usage Examples: be off, be out to in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
be off
Example
I am off to the store to buy some groceries.
Example
She is off to her friend's house for a sleepover.
be out to
Example
They are out to win the championship this year.
Example
He is out to prove everyone wrong.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Be off
head out
To leave a place or to go outside.
Example
Let's head out and enjoy the sunny weather.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Be out to
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “be”
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Phrasal Verbs with “out to”
Differences in be off vs be out to: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: be off or be out to?
In daily conversation, people use be off more often than be out to. This is because be off is used for more routine activities such as leaving work or going home. Be out to is not used as much and is more specific to situations where someone has a clear intention or goal in mind. So, while both phrases are used, be off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of be off and be out to
Be off and be out to are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of be off and be out to
The tone of be off and be out to can differ based on context. Be off often carries a neutral or casual tone when related to leaving a place, while be out to typically has a more determined or purposeful tone, especially when referring to someone's intentions or goals.