Differences between call off and count off
Call off means to cancel or postpone an event or activity, while count off means to count in order, usually for a specific purpose such as assigning tasks or checking attendance.
Meanings and Definitions: call off vs count off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Count off
- 1Say numbers aloud in a sequence.
They COUNTED the students OFF as they arrived.
Usage Examples: call off, count off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
count off
Example
The teacher asked the students to count off from one to ten.
Example
He counts off the items on his shopping list as he puts them in the cart.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Call off
To decide not to do something that was planned or scheduled.
Example
Due to the heavy rain, they had to cancel the outdoor concert.
To delay an event or activity to a later time or date.
Example
The meeting has been postponed until next week due to scheduling conflicts.
To cancel or eliminate something completely.
Example
They had to scratch their plans to go to the beach because of the storm warning.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Count off
To check who is present and absent in a group or class.
Example
The teacher asked the students to take attendance before starting the lesson.
assign numbers
To give each person or item a specific number for identification or organization.
Example
The coach assigned numbers to the players for the upcoming tournament.
To list items or people in order, usually for clarity or emphasis.
Example
The report enumerated the main challenges facing the company in the next quarter.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “call”
- call for
- call forth
- call on
- call out
- call after
Phrasal Verbs with “count”
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
- auction off
- buy off
- trot off
- polish off
- slope off
Differences in call off vs count off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: call off or count off?
In daily conversation, call off is more commonly used than count off. This is because call off is used in a variety of situations such as canceling plans, games, or meetings. Count off is not used as frequently and is mostly used in specific contexts like military training or classroom activities.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of call off and count off
Call off and count off are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, count off may be more common in formal settings like classrooms or military training.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of call off and count off
The tone of call off and count off can differ based on context. Call off often carries a disappointed or frustrated tone when referring to canceling plans or events, while count off typically has a serious and organized tone, especially when used in military or classroom settings.
