Differences between chase off and set off
Chase off means to force someone or something to leave a place, while set off means to start a journey or to cause something to start.
Meanings and Definitions: chase off vs set off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Chase off
- 1Force a person to leave or go away.
The dog CHASED he postal worker OFF.
Set off
- 1Explode a bomb.
Terrorists SET OFF a car bomb in the city centre last night. Fortunately, no - one was hurt or killed.
- 2Ring an alarm.
The smoke SET the fire alarm OFF.
- 3Start a journey.
We SET OFF for work at seven - thirty.
- 4Counterbalance a debt.
The company SET OFF its overseas debts against it profits at home.
- 5Provide a visual contrast that looks good.
The dark frame SETS the pale drawing OFF well.
- 6Cause, trigger events.
The pay freeze SET OFF a wave of strikes.
Usage Examples: chase off, set off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
chase off
Example
The farmer chased off the birds that were eating his crops.
Example
She chases off the stray cats that come into her garden.
set off
Example
We set off for our vacation early in the morning.
Example
She sets off for work at 7:30 every day.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Chase off
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set off
To cause something to start or happen.
Example
The announcement of the new product line triggered a surge in sales for the company.
Differences in chase off vs set off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: chase off or set off?
In daily conversation, people use set off more often than chase off. This is because set off is used for more common activities such as starting a trip or an event. Chase off is not used as much, and it's mainly used when we want to describe a situation where we need to force someone or something to leave a place. So, while both phrases are used, set off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of chase off and set off
Chase off and set 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 chase off and set off
The tone of chase off and set off can differ based on context. Chase off often carries a negative or aggressive tone when related to forcing someone or something to leave, while set off typically has a neutral or positive tone, especially when referring to starting a journey or an event.
