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Phrasal verbs "blow off" vs "clean off"

Differences between blow off and clean off

Blow off means to ignore or cancel something, while clean off means to remove dirt or debris from a surface.

Meanings and Definitions: blow off vs clean off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Blow off

  • 1Not keep an appointment.

    We were going to meet last night, but she BLEW me OFF at the last minute.

  • 2Ignore, not do something.

    I BLEW the homework OFF and did badly.

  • 3Expel gas from the anus.

    He BLEW OFF in front of everybody.

Clean off

  • 1Remove dirt or something dirty.

    After dinner, I CLEANED OFF the table.

Usage Examples: blow off, clean off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

blow off

Example

I decided to blow off my homework and watch a movie instead.

Example

He often blows off his chores and plays video games.

clean off

Example

Please clean off the kitchen counter after cooking.

Example

She cleans off her desk every evening before leaving work.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Blow off

brush off

To ignore or dismiss someone or something.

Example

He brushed off her concerns and continued with his plan.

cancel plans

To decide not to attend or participate in an event or activity previously arranged.

Example

I had to cancel my plans for the weekend due to unexpected work commitments.

stand someone up

To fail to appear or keep a promise to meet someone at a specific time and place.

Example

She was really upset when he stood her up on their first date.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Clean off

wipe down

To clean or remove dirt or stains from a surface using a cloth or sponge.

Example

She wiped down the kitchen counter after preparing dinner.

scrub off

To clean or remove dirt or stains from a surface using a brush or abrasive material.

Example

He had to scrub off the mud from his shoes before entering the house.

dust off

To remove dust or dirt from a surface using a cloth or duster.

Example

She dusted off the old photo album and started reminiscing about her childhood.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “blow”

Phrasal Verbs with “clean”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in blow off vs clean off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: blow off or clean off?

In daily conversation, people use blow off more often than clean off. This is because blow off is used for more social situations such as cancelling plans or ignoring someone's request. Clean off is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about cleaning something. So, while both phrases are used, blow off is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of blow off and clean off

Blow off and clean off 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 blow off and clean off

The tone of blow off and clean off can differ based on context. Blow off often carries a dismissive or casual tone when related to ignoring or cancelling plans, while clean off typically has a practical and straightforward tone, especially when referring to cleaning surfaces.

blow off & clean off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Clean off

Synonyms

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