Differences between buy off and finish off
Buy off means to bribe someone, usually with money, to influence their actions or decisions. On the other hand, finish off means to complete something, especially in a decisive or final way.
Meanings and Definitions: buy off vs finish off
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.
Finish off
- 1Finish completely.
They FINISHED OFF all the chocolates and had to go to the all - night garage to buy some more.
- 2Kill a person or animal, often when they have already been hurt.
The animal was badly hurt, so they FINISHED it OFF to end its suffering.
- 3Beat, make victory certain in sport.
The second goal FINISHED them OFF.
- 4Consume all.
We FINISHED OFF the coffee and had to get some more.
Usage Examples: buy off, finish off 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.
finish off
Example
I need to finish off this report before the deadline.
Example
She finishes off her homework every night before watching TV.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Buy off
To offer money or other incentives to someone to influence their actions or decisions.
Example
The politician was accused of trying to bribe the judge to win the case.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Finish off
wrap up
To complete or finish something, especially a task or project.
Example
Let's wrap up this meeting and finalize the action items.
conclude
To bring something to an end or reach a final decision or agreement.
Example
After hours of negotiations, the parties were able to conclude a deal.
Differences in buy off vs finish off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: buy off or finish off?
In everyday conversation, finish off is more common than buy off. This is because finish off is used in various contexts, such as finishing a task, completing a meal, or ending a competition. Buy off, on the other hand, is a less common phrase and is mainly used in discussions related to corruption or bribery.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of buy off and finish off
Buy off and finish off are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, using buy off in formal settings can be inappropriate and even illegal, depending on the context. In contrast, finish off can be used in both informal and formal settings without any issues.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of buy off and finish off
The tone of buy off and finish off is quite different. Buy off has a negative connotation and implies dishonesty or corruption. In contrast, finish off has a neutral or positive connotation and implies completion or achievement.
