Differences between break off and call off
Break off means to end a relationship, agreement, or conversation abruptly or suddenly. Call off, on the other hand, means to cancel or postpone an event, plan, or engagement.
Meanings and Definitions: break off vs call off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Break off
- 1Break a piece from something.
She BROKE OFF a square of chocolate and gave it to her dog.
- 2End a relationship.
She BROKE OFF their engagement when she found out that he'd been unfaithful.
Call off
- 1Cancel.
The concert had to be CALLED OFF because the singer went down with a bad case of flu.
- 2Order someone to stop attacking.
CALL OFF your lawyers; we can work something out.
Usage Examples: break off, call off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
break off
Example
She decided to break off a piece of the chocolate bar.
Example
He breaks off a piece of bread to share with his friend.
call off
Example
They decided to call off the meeting due to bad weather.
Example
She calls off the party because of the sudden rainstorm.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Break off
terminate
To bring something to an end or conclusion.
Example
The company decided to terminate the contract with the unreliable supplier.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Call off
To decide not to do something that was planned or scheduled.
Example
Due to the bad weather, they had to cancel the outdoor concert.
To delay or reschedule an event or a plan to a later time or date.
Example
They had to postpone the wedding due to the groom's sudden illness.
To cancel or abandon a plan or an event.
Example
They had to scrub the mission due to technical problems with the spacecraft.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “break”
Phrasal Verbs with “call”
Differences in break off vs call off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: break off or call off?
Both break off and call off are commonly used in everyday conversation, but call off is more frequently used than break off. This is because call off is used for a wider range of situations such as canceling a meeting, a trip, or a game, while break off is mainly used for ending relationships or conversations.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of break off and call off
Break off and call off are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, call off can be used in more formal contexts such as business or academic settings when referring to canceling an event or a meeting.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of break off and call off
The tone of break off and call off can differ based on context. Break off often carries a negative or emotional tone when related to ending a relationship or a conversation, while call off typically has a practical and neutral tone, especially when referring to canceling an event or a plan.
