Help center

Phrasal verbs "carry off" vs "make off"

Differences between carry off and make off

Carry off means to succeed in doing something difficult or challenging, especially in a competition or performance. On the other hand, make off means to leave quickly or escape from a place, often with something that doesn't belong to you.

Meanings and Definitions: carry off vs make off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Carry off

  • 1Win, succeed.

    She CARRIED OFF the first prize in the competition.

  • 2Die of a disease.

    Cancer CARRIED him OFF a couple of years ago.

Make off

  • 1Leave somewhere in a hurry.

    They MADE OFF when they heard the police siren.

Usage Examples: carry off, make off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

carry off

Example

The team managed to carry off the championship trophy.

Example

She carries off the presentation with confidence.

make off

Example

The thieves made off with the stolen goods.

Example

He makes off as soon as he sees the security guard.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Carry off

pull off

To succeed in doing something difficult or challenging, especially in a competition or performance.

Example

Despite the odds, the underdog team managed to pull off a stunning victory against the reigning champions.

nail it

To successfully accomplish or execute a task or performance.

Example

She was nervous about the presentation, but she managed to nail it and impress her boss.

ace it

To perform exceptionally well in a task or activity.

Example

He studied hard for the exam and managed to ace it, getting the highest score in the class.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Make off

run away

To leave a place quickly, especially to escape from danger or avoid punishment.

Example

When the fire broke out, everyone started to run away from the building to avoid getting hurt.

steal away

To leave a place quietly or secretly, especially with something that doesn't belong to you.

Example

The thief managed to steal away with the valuable painting without anyone noticing.

take flight

To run away or escape from a dangerous or threatening situation.

Example

When they heard the gunshots, the crowd started to panic and took flight in different directions.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “carry”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in carry off vs make off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: carry off or make off?

In everyday conversation, make off is more common than carry off. This is because make off is used to describe situations that happen more frequently, such as theft or escaping from danger. Carry off is less common and is mainly used in specific contexts, such as sports or performing arts.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of carry off and make off

Carry off and make off are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, make off can also be used in more formal settings, such as news reports or legal documents, to describe theft or robbery.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of carry off and make off

The tone of carry off and make off can differ based on context. Carry off often carries a triumphant or proud tone when related to winning or succeeding in a competition or performance, while make off typically has a negative or suspicious tone, especially when referring to stealing or escaping from a situation.

carry off & make off: Synonyms and Antonyms

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!