Differences between cast off and cast out
Cast off usually means to let go of something or someone, especially when it's no longer needed or wanted. It can also refer to removing clothing or accessories. On the other hand, cast out means to expel or banish someone or something from a place or group.
Meanings and Definitions: cast off vs cast out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Cast off
- 1Dispose, get rid of.
They CAST OFF any semblance of politeness and attacked us viciously.
- 2Untie a boat so it's free to sail.
They CAST OFF and headed out to sea.
Cast out
- 1Expel, reject.
They CAST him OUT because of his behaviour.
Usage Examples: cast off, cast out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
cast off
Example
She decided to cast off her old clothes and buy new ones.
Example
He casts off his worries and enjoys the weekend.
cast out
Example
The community decided to cast out the troublemaker.
Example
She casts out anyone who doesn't follow the rules.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cast off
To throw away or reject something that is no longer useful or valuable.
Example
The chef had to discard the spoiled ingredients and start over with fresh ones.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cast out
To force someone or something to leave a place or group, usually as a punishment or consequence.
Example
The school had to expel the student for repeatedly breaking the rules and disrupting classes.
To send someone or something away from a place or group as a form of punishment or exile.
Example
The king decided to banish the traitor from the kingdom and never allow him to return.
To exclude or shun someone from a group or community as a way of punishing or rejecting them.
Example
The clique decided to ostracize the new girl and make her feel unwelcome at school.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “cast”
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
- max out
- winkle out
- branch out
- dip out
- bleed out
Differences in cast off vs cast out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: cast off or cast out?
In daily conversation, people use cast off more often than cast out. This is because cast off is used for more daily tasks and routines such as getting rid of old clothes or letting go of negative emotions. Cast out is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about expelling someone or something from a group or community. So, while both phrases are used, cast off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of cast off and cast out
Cast off and cast out 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 cast off and cast out
The tone of cast off and cast out can differ based on context. Cast off often carries a positive or neutral tone when related to letting go of something or someone, while cast out typically has a negative or judgmental tone, especially when referring to expelling someone or something from a group or community.