Differences between call off and head off
Call off means to cancel an event or activity that was planned or scheduled, while head off means to prevent something from happening or to intercept someone before they reach their destination.
Meanings and Definitions: call off vs head 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.
Head off
- 1Stop someone or force them to change direction.
The sheriff and his men HEADED the bandits OFF at the pass.
- 2Prevent something bad happening.
The company made a better offer to HEAD OFF the moves for a strike.
- 3Leave somewhere to go to another place.
After work, we all HEADED OFF to the pub.
Usage Examples: call off, head 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.
head off
Example
The police headed off the protesters before they reached the city center.
Example
She heads off to the gym every morning before work.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Call off
To decide not to proceed with an event or activity that was planned or scheduled.
Example
Due to the heavy rain, the outdoor concert was canceled.
To cancel or abandon a plan or activity.
Example
They had to scrub their plans for a beach day due to the sudden thunderstorm.
To give up or stop doing something that was planned or started.
Example
After several failed attempts, they decided to abandon their plan to climb the mountain.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Head off
To stop or catch someone or something before they reach their destination.
Example
The police were able to intercept the stolen car before it left the city.
To prevent or avoid something negative from happening.
Example
The timely intervention of the firefighters helped avert a major disaster.
To prevent or hinder something from happening by taking action beforehand.
Example
The company implemented new security measures to forestall any potential cyber attacks.
Differences in call off vs head off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: call off or head off?
In everyday conversation, call off is more commonly used than head off. This is because we often need to cancel plans or events due to unforeseen circumstances. On the other hand, head off is used less frequently and usually in specific situations where we need to prevent something from happening.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of call off and head off
Call off and head off are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, head off can be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts to convey a sense of urgency or importance.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of call off and head off
The tone of call off and head off can differ based on context. Call off often carries a disappointed or regretful tone when referring to canceling plans or events, while head off typically has a proactive and urgent tone, especially when referring to preventing something negative from happening.
