Phrasal verbs "buy off" vs "buy out"

Differences between buy off and buy out

The main difference between buy off and buy out is that buy off means to bribe someone, usually with money, to do something unethical or illegal, while buy out means to purchase all or a controlling portion of a company or business.

Meanings and Definitions: buy off vs buy out

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Buy off

  • 1Pay someone to stop them causing trouble.

    He BOUGHT the newspaper OFF by placing a lot of adverts.

Buy out

  • 1Buy somebody's share in a company.

    His business partners BOUGHT him OUT to get rid of him.

Usage Examples: buy off, buy out in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

buy off

Example

The politician tried to buy off the journalist to prevent the scandal from being exposed.

Example

He buys off the security guard to gain access to the restricted area.

buy out

Example

They plan to buy out their competitor's shares.

Example

She buys out her partner's shares in the business.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Buy off

To give someone money or gifts to influence their behavior or decision-making.

Example

The politician was accused of accepting a large sum of money to bribe the judge.

To give someone money to ensure a favorable outcome or to settle a debt.

Example

He had to pay off his credit card debt before he could apply for a loan.

grease someone's palm

To bribe someone with money or gifts to gain an advantage or favor.

Example

The contractor greased the inspector's palm to pass the building inspection.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Buy out

To obtain or gain possession of something, often through a purchase or exchange.

Example

The company plans to acquire a smaller competitor to expand its market share.

To assume control or ownership of a company or business.

Example

The new CEO plans to take over the company and implement major changes.

To buy something, often with money, in exchange for ownership or possession.

Example

He decided to purchase the house after months of searching for the perfect home.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “buy”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Phrasal Verbs with “out”

Differences in buy off vs buy out: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: buy off or buy out?

In everyday conversation, buy out is more common than buy off. This is because buy out is often used in business contexts, while buy off has negative connotations and is not commonly used in polite conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of buy off and buy out

Buy out is more formal than buy off. It is often used in business settings and financial transactions. On the other hand, buy off is an informal phrase that is often associated with unethical or illegal activities.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of buy off and buy out

The tone of buy off is negative and implies corruption or dishonesty. In contrast, buy out is neutral and can have positive or negative connotations depending on the context.

buy off & buy out: Synonyms and Antonyms

Buy out

Synonyms

Antonyms

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