Differences between call off and tell off
Call off means to cancel an event or activity that was planned or scheduled, while tell off means to scold or reprimand someone for their behavior.
Meanings and Definitions: call off vs tell 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.
Tell off
- 1Chide; talk angrily to someone about something they've done wrong..
His fiancée TOLD him OFF for arriving nearly an hour late.
Usage Examples: call off, tell 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.
tell off
Example
She tells off her children when they misbehave.
Example
He tells off his employees for not following the rules.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Call off
To decide not to do something that was previously planned or scheduled.
Example
Due to the heavy rain, they had to cancel the outdoor concert.
To delay or reschedule an event or activity to a later time or date.
Example
They decided to postpone the meeting until next week due to a scheduling conflict.
To cancel or eliminate something completely.
Example
They had to scratch the idea of having a company retreat this year due to budget constraints.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tell off
rebuke
To express sharp disapproval or criticism towards someone's behavior or actions.
Example
The coach rebuked the player for not following the team's rules and regulations.
To scold or criticize someone formally for their behavior or actions.
Example
The teacher reprimanded the student for cheating on the exam.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “call”
Phrasal Verbs with “tell”
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Differences in call off vs tell off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: call off or tell off?
In daily conversation, people use call off more often than tell off. This is because call off is used for more common situations such as canceling plans or events. On the other hand, tell off is used less frequently and usually in situations where someone has done something wrong and needs to be corrected. So, while both phrases are used, call off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of call off and tell off
Call off and tell off are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of call off and tell off
The tone of call off and tell off can differ based on context. Call off typically has a neutral or regretful tone when referring to canceling plans or events, while tell off usually has a stern or angry tone when scolding someone for their behavior.
