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Phrasal verbs "break off" vs "stop off"

Differences between break off and stop off

Break off means to end something abruptly or suddenly, while stop off means to take a short break or pause during a journey or activity.

Meanings and Definitions: break off vs stop 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.

Stop off

  • 1Break a journey.

    We STOPPED OFF for lunch about halfway there, then carried on driving.

Usage Examples: break off, stop 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.

stop off

Example

We stopped off at a small café for a quick snack.

Example

She stops off at the park every day on her way home from work.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Break off

end abruptly

To stop or terminate something suddenly or unexpectedly.

Example

The negotiations ended abruptly when the two parties couldn't agree on the terms.

call it quits

To decide to stop doing something or end a relationship or activity.

Example

After months of trying to make it work, they finally called it quits and decided to move on.

cut ties

To end a relationship or connection with someone or something.

Example

He decided to cut ties with his toxic friend and focus on building healthier relationships.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stop off

take a break

To pause or rest from an activity or task.

Example

Let's take a break and grab some coffee before we continue working on the project.

drop by

To visit briefly or informally.

Example

I'm going to drop by the store on my way home to pick up some groceries.

make a pit stop

To take a quick break during a journey to use the restroom, get food or gas, etc.

Example

We need to make a pit stop before we continue driving to our destination.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “stop”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in break off vs stop off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: break off or stop off?

In everyday conversation, stop off is more common than break off. This is because stop off is used in a variety of situations such as traveling, shopping, or running errands. Break off is less common and usually used in more specific contexts such as relationships or negotiations.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of break off and stop off

Stop off and break off are both informal phrases suitable for casual conversations. However, break off can also be used in more formal settings such as business or legal contexts.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of break off and stop off

The tone of break off and stop off can differ based on context. Break off often carries a negative or serious tone when related to ending a relationship or negotiation, while stop off typically has a neutral or positive tone, especially when referring to taking a break during a journey or activity.

break off & stop off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Stop off

Synonyms

Antonyms

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